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GIFT  OF 


CLOUDS  AND  SUNSHINE 

•Poems 

BY 
MISS  MARY  SMYTH 

WITH 

AN  INTRODUCTORY  MEMOIR 
BY  HER  SISTER 


PRIVATELY  PRINTED 

TAYLOR,  NASH  &>  TAYLOR 

MDCCCCXII 


Copyright  1912 

by  Elizabeth  Smyth 

San  Francisco 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 
INDEX 

Page 

Introduction vii 

Let    Me    Cling    to    Jesus 1 

The    Atoning    Blood 1 

My     Closet     3 

Did    You    Ever    Think    Right 4 

A    Song    of    Thanksgiving 6 

Sixty-three     9 

Mamie's    Death     10 

The    Barren    Tree 11 

Jesus,     My     Love 13 

To   the    Moon    14 

Christ   All   in   All 18 

Cause    of    Thanks 20 

God's    Ways    Not    Our    Ways 21 

The    Double    Claim 24 

Recollections    of    a    Departed    Mother 26 

Boast    Not    of    Tomorrow 28 

The    Christian's    God 29 

Submission    30 

Were   I    to    Die   Today 32 

Wherefore    Am    I    Stricken 33 

To    My    Heart 37 

Faith   in   the   Promises 37 

By    and    By 41 

On  the  Death  of  Sister   1 42 

The    Sabbath's    Complaint 45 

The    Pharisee    and   the    Publican 47 

Spring    48 

An  Acrostic    50 

To   Mrs.   C.   on  the  Death  of  Her  Little   Son 50 

Hope    Deferred    52 

Again     57 

My    Present    Good 58 

Apologies     58 

God    Hath    Heard    Me 59 

On     Mirth     60 

The    Dream 62 

Thou  Didst   Call   Me 64 

Death    65 

The   Smitten   Gourd 67 

Hints   to    Parents 67 

To    My    Sisters 70 

The  Search     75 

The  Sabbath     76 

Looking    to     God 77 

Friendship 

Part    First  —  Worldly   Friendship 80 

Part    Second  —  True    Friendship 83 

Tongue    Wounds     86 

Nathan's   Parable,    or    Grace   is   Grace 89 


[Hi] 

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CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Page 

"Lord,    Remember    Me" 94 

Birthdays    Reckoned    94 

On   Murmuring    95 

A    Birthday    Gift 96 

To    a    Friend 98 

On  the   Death  of  Sister   C .102 

The   Primrose     104 

The   Communion      106 

Hope    Better   Than    Gold 109 

A   Visit   from   a    Minister 112 

God  Cares  for   Me 115 

The    Record    116 

Life    Religion     117 

Grace    Contemplated    118 

Pride     120 

Trials   Improved    121 

The    Hint    122 

"Not    As    I    Will" 123 

Remaining    Corruptions     124 

To    Brother    S 125 

Thoughts    On    Affliction 126 

What    Is    Love 128 

My   Sabbaths    129 

Christ,    the    Great   Physician 132 

A  Fallen  Leaf 133 

On   Approaching    God 134 

To    My    Soul 137 

Not  of  Works 138 

My   Ebenezer    139 

Consolation     141 

Think   On   Me 142 

A   Humiliation   Day 1 43 

On  the   Death  of  Mrs.    M % ' 145 

On   Departed    Joys ' 147 

Returning   Spring 148 

A    Wish     149 

The  Appointed  Time 149 

The   Formbay     155 

A    Peep    Behind    the    Screen;    or    The    Hypocrite's    Account 

of    Himself 157 

True    Nobility    1 63 

To    M.    S * 164 

No    Cause    to    Murmur 1 65 

A    Visit    from    My    Pastor 1 68 

To    a    Linnet 1 69 

In    Everything    Give    Thanks 171 

The   Church   and   Churchyard 172 

On   Being  Presented  With  My   Father's  Likeness 173 

To    Miss    J.    J 173 

My    Song    175 

By   Whom   Shall    I    Stand   Before    God 176 

Preservation    in    Sleep 180 

In    What    Do    I    Joy 181 

[iv] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Page 

Change    of    Places 182 

Postscript     184 

Kilraught's     Communion     185 

O    Lord    I    Will    Praise    Thee 188 

To    Brother   T 189 

Which     Is     Best 190 

God  Ever  Near 191 

Grief   Moderated    192 

Glad  Tidings    193 

To    a    Sick    Pastor 195 

Mercies  Acknowledged    197 

On   the    Preservation   of   Friends 199 

The   Storm    200 

The  Visit     202 

The  Lily     203 

A    Charge   to   My   Soul 206 

"Will    be    Will" 209 

On    Sudden    Deaths 210 

The   Rose    212 

My    Present    Cross 213 

New    Years    Day 216 

Let   My   Life  be   Precious  in  Thy   Sight 218 

Too     Sensitive 219 

Do    I     See    My    Danger 221 

Counterfeit    Saints    223 

The    Idiot's    Prayer 225 

Unbelief   Adds   to   Our    Cross 227 

Disappointment   Improved    229 

Boasting    Excluded    * 230 

The    Vow 

Part   First  —  Why? 233 

Part   Second  —  How    234 

Thanks    for    Mercies 238 

To     a     Robin 239 

Take    No   Thought    For   Tomorrow 242 

Whose   Am    I 243 

A    Prayer   for    a    Sick    Friend 247 

The  Happy  Hereafter 250 

A    May    Day 251 

On  the   Death  of   Olive   May 252 

The    Last    Step 254 

My     Friends     256 

Leaving    Home    256 

To    Miss    S 257 

Just   What    I    Feel 258 

On   the   Death   of   a   Young   Lady 260 

"Thou,   God,   Seest  Me" 261 

My    Little    Book 262 

To    God   I    Commit  the   Cause 263 

Eighteen    Sixty-six 264 

On    Sadness    265 

To  a  Young  Friend  Who  Was  Preparing  for  the  Ministry ..  .266 
Assurance  —  (Lines    by    Sister    C.) 272 

[V] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Page 

The    Moment    After    Death 272 

A    Friend's    Return 273 

To  the   Cuckoo , 274 

"Lie   Not   One   to   Another" 277 

Love  to   the    Saints 280 

My  Times   Are   in   Thy    Hand 281 

To    a    Christian    Lady 281 

On  the  Death  of  a  Young  Girl 284 

How    Long     287 

Prayer      289 

Rejoicing    in    God's    Sovereignty 290 

My    Home    291 

Self-Examination     292 

Bereavements    294 

The   Christian's   Farewell  to  the   Earth 296 

Praise     297 

A    Joyful    Meeting , 300 

I    Cried  to   God  from  the   Low   Dungeon 301 

Acrostic      303 

Welcome    Death    303 

A    Freak    of    Fancy 304 

Praise  for  a   Friend's  Recovery 313 

A   Sweeter   Song 314 

My    Heart's    Desire 315 

Less  Than   the    Least 317 

A   Farewell  to   the    Muse 318 

Summer's    Approach     323 

Tke    Heap    of    Witness 325 


[vi] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


INTRODUCTORY   MEMOIR 

When  John  Bunyan  talked  of  publishing  his  "Pilgrim's 
Progress,"  some  said,  "John,  print  it,"  others  said,  "No,"  and 
so  I  find  it  is  with  me  at  the  present  day.  Of  the  few  friends 
who  have  seen  these  poems  of  my  sister's,  the  majority  have 
advised  their  publication ;  others  have  hinted  that  they  are  only 
of  family  or  at  most  of  local  interest,  and  hence  would  not  be 
much  appreciated  by  the  general  public.  While  admitting  that 
this  may  be  true  of  some  of  them  to  a  certain  extent,  I  believe 
there  are  in  this  country,  as  in  other  places,  many  of  "God's 
hidden  ones"  who  are  suffering  "  'neath  the  rod,"  to  whom  the 
experience  of  one  whose  path  for  many  years  lay  much  in  the 
cloud  land  of  suffering  and  privation,  yet  who  through  grace 
was  enabled  to  bear  with  patience  and  fortitude  the  cross 
assigned  her  by  her  Lord,  will  not  be  uninteresting.  As  little 
is  known  of  her  in  this  country  it  may  be  well  to  give  a 
short  sketch  of  her  life. 

Mary  Smyth  was  born  January  16,  1830,  in  County  Antrim, 
Ireland.  She  was  the  daughter  of  John  and  Isabella  D.  Smyth, 
and  the  third  child  in  a  family  of  five  girls  and  four  boys. 
Father's  business  required  him  to  be  much  away  from  home, 
consequently  the  care  and  training  of  the  children  devolved 
almost  entirely  on  mother;  and  well  did  she  perform  her  task, 
for  she  was  not  only  a  devoted  mother,  but  a  capable  woman, 
and  an  earnest  Christian.  Being  of  Scotch  descent,  like  many 
others  in  the  same  part  of  the  country,  Mary  inherited  not  a 
few  of  the  sterling  qualities  and  staunch  religious  principles 
which  so  strongly  mark  the  Scotch  Presbyterians  wherever 
they  are  found.  Yet,  notwithstanding  her  home  advantages 
and  early  religious  training,  it  was  not  without  a  severe  mental 
struggle  that  she  closed  in  with  the  terms  of  salvation  and 
accepted  Jesus  Christ  as  her  own  personal  Saviour.  But, 
having  once  put  her  "hand  to  the  plough,"  there  was  no 
looking  back.  From  henceforth,  "Forward"  was  her  motto. 
Like  Paul,  she  pressed  toward  the  mark  for  the  prize  of  the 
high  calling  of  God  in  Christ  Jesus. 

She  greatly  desired  to  enter  into  some  active  service  for 
God,  but  this  was  not  "the  will  of  God"  concerning  her.  The 
plans  she  had  formed  and  the  disappointment  of  her  hopes  in 
regard  to  this  matter  are  pathetically  described  in  the  poem 
entitled  "God's  Ways  Not  Our  Ways."  Her  ambition  was 
checked  in  a  somewhat  remarkable  manner.  Without  any 
known  cause  she  was  suddenly  seized  with  spinal  disease.  Her 
case  was  a  very  peculiar  one,  for,  while  there  was  no  outward 
appearance  of  anything  being  the  matter,  weakness  rapidly 
o'erspread  her  whole  frame ;  even  her  eyes,  though  they  lost 
none  of  their  luster  or  brightness,  became  so  weak  that  she 
was  unable  to  read,  which  added  much  to  her  trial.  Medical 
skill  was  completely  baffled.  The  physicians  could  neither  find 
out  the  cause  nor  effect  a  cure.  The  utmost  they  could  accom- 
plish was  to  give  her  a  little  temporary  relief  when  at  times 
her  suffering  became  very  severe.  But  between  these  seasons 
of  suffering  there  was  often  long  intervals  of  comparative  rest 

[vii] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


and    quiet,    and,    her    general    health    being   unimpaired,    she    was 
usually  cheerful  and  happy. 

Naturally  of  a  lively  and  energetic  disposition,  but  now  laid 
aside  unfit  for  any  work  whatever,  and,  as  has  been  said,  unable 
to  read,  her  active  mind  sought  employment  in  verse  making, 
which  proved  a  great  solace  to  her  ofttimes  troubled  spirit.  Her 
thoughts  flowed  freely  through  this  channel  and  much  of  her 
inner  life  is  revealed  by  this  means  which  would  otherwise  have 
been  unknown  even  to  those  with  whom  she  was  most  inti- 
mately associated. 

She  was  much  attached  to  home  and  friends.  The  different 
deaths  occurring  in  the  family,  and  several  changes  of  residence 
consequent  thereon,  were  very  trying  to  her  in  her  weakened 
condition.  This  may  explain  the  touching  references  that  are 
made  to  these  occasions  in  some  of  her  poems.  For  the  long 
period  of  nineteen  years  she  was  never  able  to  sit  up  a  whole 
day  at  a  time,  yet  no  murmur  or  complaint  ever  escaped  her 
lips.  For  quite  a  number  of  years,  however,  her  vigorous 
constitution  showed  no  signs  of  breaking  down,  but  at  length 
suffering  and  confinement  did  their  work  and  she  began  to 
grow  gradually  weaker.  .  When  the  fall  of  1872  came  it  was 
plain  the  last  enemy  was  not  far  distant,  yet  she  was  not 
dismayed  at  his  approach,  but  welcomed  him  as  the  messenger 
sent  by  her  Heavenly  Father  to  call  her  to  her  everlasting 
rest.  A  few  days  before  her  death  she  had  one  of  those  sinking 
spells  that  so  often  precede  the  close  of  life.  On  reviving  she 
seemed  disappointed,  and  said,  "I  was  so  glad  to  think  I  was 
going  to  get  home."  On  the  twenty-ninth  of  November  the 
end  came.  It  was  calm  and  peaceful.  Without  a  sigh  or  a 
struggle  she  passed  away.  "So  giveth  He  His  beloved  sleep." 
I  need  say  no  more.  Those  who  read  this  book  will  learn 
more  of  its  author  than  any  words  of  mine  could  tell  them. 
For  reasons  which  it  is  not  necessary  to  state  here,  its  publica- 
tion has  been  delayed  until  the  present;  but  I  now  send  it  forth 
in  the  hope  that  it  may  not  be  unfavorably  received. 

ELIZABETH   SMYTH. 


[  viii  ] 


CLOUDS      AND       S   U;N;  S  :H   I  .N 


Let  Me  Cling  to  Jesus 

Jesus,  save  me  from  my  foes, 
Let  me  on  Thy  breast  repose, 
And  my  griefs  to  Thee  disclose  — 
Let  me  cling  to  Jesus. 

Jesus,  save  me  from  distress, 
Thou  who  art  all  loveliness; 
Beauty  on  my  soul  impress  — 
Let  me  cling  to  Jesus. 

Jesus,  save  me  in  each  strait; 
May  I  still  upon  Thee  wait, 
And  let  me  not  take  sin's  bait  — 
Let  me  cling  to  Jesus. 

Jesus,  save  me  night  and  day, 
Lest  I  should  be  tempted  to  stray 
From  the  path  of  life  away  — 
Let  me  cling  to  Jesus. 

Jesus,  save  me,  for  Thou  art  strong, 
While  Thou  dost  my  life  prolong, 
And  in  death  be  Thou  my  song  — 
Let  me  cling  to  Jesus. 

Jesus,  save  me,  and  by  grace 
Take  me  to  Thy  holy  place 
Where  I  shall  behold  Thy  Face  — 
Let  me  cling  to  Jesus. 


The  Atoning  Blood 


O  Thou  who  for  Thy  glory  hast 
Grace  in  abundance  shown, 

Accept  for  my  transgressions  vast 
The  Blood  which  doth  atone. 

In  me  there  is  no  good  which  I 
Can  justly  call  my  own, 

By  doing  so  I  would  deny 
The  Blood  which  doth  atone. 

By  sin  I  am  undone,  yet  would 
Fall  down  before  Thy  throne, 


n  a  LA  N  D    SUNSHINE 


And  humbly  claim  a  portion  good 
Through  Him  that  doth  atone. 

Whoever  was  denied,  who  sought 

It  in  the  way  made  known, 
The  robe  of  righteousness  well  wrought 

By  Him  who  did  atone — 

O  God,  be  pleased  from  me  to  take 

Away  this  heart  of  stone, 
And  a  believer  real  me  make 

In  Him  that  did  atone. 

Beneath  sin's  weight  no  more  I  need 
Send  forth  a  hopeless  groan, 

If  I  believingly  but  plead 

The  Blood  which  doth  atone. 

And  this  to  know  should  keep  in  check 

Each  unbelieving  moan, 
That  Christ  to  save  my  soul  from  wreck 

Did  willingly  atone. 

And  is  it  true  that  I  have  all 

My  sins  upon  him  thrown? 
Then  surely  mine  I  may  Him  call 

Who  died  for  to  atone. 

That  I  am  His  hath  even  He 

By  His  blest  Spirit  shown, 
If  so  I  can't  mistaken  be  — 

He's  mine  who  did  atone. 

Yes,  I  am  my  Beloved's,  and  He 

Is  my  Beloved  alone  — 
The  reason  is  He  purchased  me 

By  dying  to  atone. 

Yes,  Lord,  I'm  Thine,  and  do  Thou  not 

Thy  lawful  right  disown; 
My  sins  Thou  surely  canst  outblot 

Through  Blood  which  doth  atone. 

My  Lord,  my  God,  Thou  surely  art 

My  Saviour  alone  — 
That  I  in  life  might  have  my  part 

Thou  died  hast  to  atone. 

[2] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


In  everything  Thou  dost  excel  — 

Like  unto  Thee  there's  none, 
For  Saviours  else  to  save  from  hell 

None  could  nor  would  atone. 

Thanks,  thanks  and  praise  that  ever  He 

Was  of  our  flesh  and  bone 
Made  that  from  wrath   He  might  us  free 

By  bleeding  to  atone. 


My  Closet 

What  would  you  think  if  in  my  cot 

I  have  a  little  Bethel  got 

And  I  do  call  this  pleasant  spot 

My  closet? 

If  asked  of  any  where  I  spent 
My  moments  with  the  most  content, 
My  thoughts  to  thee-ward  would  be  bent- 

My  closet. 

I  unobserved  by  mortal  eye, 

My  God  to  me  alone  being  nigh, 

Can  pray  in  thee  to  the  Most  High  — 

My  closet. 

Now  that  I  can  no  more  repair 
Unto  God's  house  to  worship  there, 
Thy  duties  claim  the  more  my  care  — 

My  closet. 

Though  lonesome  there  I  seem  to  be, 
I'm  not  alone,  for  God's  with  me; 
Yea,  He  my  soul  doth  meet  in  thee  — 

My  closet. 

Oft  has  my  soul  in  solemn  prayer 
With  God  had  sweet  communion  there, 
As  thereto  thou  canst  witness  bear  — 

My  closet. 

And  sometimes  when  I  grief  have  had 
And  have  gone  in  castdown  and  sad, 
I  have  come  out  from  thee  heart-glad  — 

My  closet. 

[3] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

Dare  I  give  up  my  privilege  there, 
Though  mines  of  gold  I  offered  were, 
O  let  my  soul  for  thee  declare  — 

My  closet. 

Earth  has  no  bribes  to  offer  me, 
The  Blood  of  Christ  is  all  my  plea, 
Through  which  I'll  boldly  go  to  thee  — 

My  closet. 

Can  they  who  walk  Mirth's  gayest  round, 
E'en  when  their  joy  doth  most  abound, 
Find  such  as  I  in  thee  have  found  — 

My  closet. 

Till  death  me  takes  may  grace  divine 
Still  to  this  place  my  heart  incline, 
When  I  for  glory  shall  resign  — 

My  closet. 

And  even  there  it  shall  not  be 
An  inconsistent  thought  in  me, 
To  think  on  moments  spent  in  thee  — 

My  closet. 


Did  You  Ever  Think  Right 

Whoe'er  you  be,  reader, 

This    question's    to    you  — 
Of  Christ  men  think  different, 

So  can't  all  think  true: 
While  Christ  and  Salvation 

Your  thoughts  do  invite, 
My  friend,  I  would  ask  — 

Did  you  ever  think  right? 

The  time  that  is  present 

Is  all  you  can  claim, 
For  to  get  acquainted 

With  Jesus'  blessed  name 
E'er  you  be  o'ertaken 

By  death's  gloomy  night, 
It  is  of  importance 

That  you  should  think  right. 

[4] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

The  law  exacts  brick 

While  it  cannot  straw  give, 
But  the  Gospel  points  out 

How  the  sinner  may  live. 
While  grace  doth  its  scepter 

Hold  out  in  your  sight, 

0  deem  it  a  privilege 

That  you  should  think  right! 

As  good  as  your  neighbors 

Though  this  you  should  be, 
From  death's  awful  sentence 

Your  soul  it  can't  free. 
How  many  their  souls  lose 

This  way,  and  thus  slight 
A  crucified  Jesus 

And  never  think  right? 

If  you  would  be  Christ's 

You  must  wholly  be  His 
Though  friends  should  all  frown 

And  the  old  serpent  hiss. 
In  saving  His  people 

God  takes  great  delight, 
Who  is  the  sole  fountain 

Of  their  thinking  right. 

1  really  do  pity 

That  soul  in  its  grief 
Than  the  creature  who  higher 

Looks  not  for  relief. 
Oh,  if  men  but  knew 

How  the  God  of  all  might 
Delights  to  give  comfort, 

They'd  haste  to  think  right. 

Today  if  you  hear 

His  blest  Voice,  harden  not 
Your  heart,  for  the  devil 

Hath  laid  a  deep  plot 
To  hold  you  in  bondage, 

And  his  chain  binds  tight  — 
O   give  God  no  rest 

Till  He  makes  you  think  right! 

Run,  run  unto  Jesus, 
Delay  not  one  day, 

[5] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


To  you  Mercy's  door 

May  be  shut  then  for  aye. 

Enlist  with  this  Captain 
And  in  His  cause  fight  — 

You'll  never  be  happy 
Except  you  think  right. 

He'll  surely  supply  you 

With  all  that  you  need  — 
Your  soul  with  choice  dainties 

He  ever  shall  feed. 
He'll  clothe  you  in  armour 

Well  proved  and  bright, 
If  faith  acts  upon  Him 

By  your  thinking  right. 

To  him  that  o'ercometh 

God  shall  give  all  things, 
Yea,  even  the  fountain 

From  whence  all  good  springs; 
And  he  shall  forever 

Walk  with  God  in  white 
Where  none  e'er  repent  shall 

Their  having  thought  right. 


A  Song  of  Thanksgiving 

When  jarring  elements  around 

Us  strive  on  every  side, 
We  troubled  much  are  at  the  sound 

And  fain  ourselves  would  hide. 

And  when  we're  nigh  o'ercome  with  grief 

And  can  no  out-gate  see, 
We  think  if  God  would  send  relief, 

How  thankful  we  would  be! 

But  when  the  storm  has  passed  away 

And  grief  is  lighter  grown, 
To  give  God  thanks  how  we  delay, 

Alas!  we  scarce  will  own. 

The  Hand  that  saved  us  when  we  tried 
In  vain  the  storm  to  hush, 

[6] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


And  did  of  grief  roll  back  the  tide 
Which  threatened  us  to  crush, 

More  cause  for  joy  sure  than  complaint 

I  have  in  all  I  meet, 
If  mine's  the  privilege  of  the  saint 

From  bitter  to  take  sweet. 

"Pis  very  hard  content  to  be 

In  every  case  feel  I 
Especially  if  wronged  we  see 

Ourselves  it  doth  us  try. 

'Tis  painful  on  our  griefs  to  dwell 

When  we  can't  them  remove, 
But  if  we  do  improve  them  well 

They  will  a  blessing  prove. 

The  cloud  was  very  dark  and  seemed 

Us  to  encircle  quite, 
Through  which  a  ray  of  light  scarce  gleamed 

All  —  all  was  dark  as  night, 

Till  He,  whom  darkness  is  about 

His  throne,  did  light  us  bring, 
And  from  our  troubles  brought  us  out 

And  gave  us  cause  to  sing. 

And  of  deliverance  a  song 

To  sing  I  did  intend, 
If  that  God  would  by  His  Hand  strong 

To  us  deliverance  send. 

So  with  my  heart  when  trials  sharp 

Had  passed  I  did  commune; 
I  fain  would  sing  but  found  my  harp 

Was  sadly  out  of  tune; 

The  reason  of  which  when  I  sought 

For  I  just  found  to  be 
That  my  soul  had  depression  caught 

From  deep  adversity. 

What  I  resolved  how  could  I  then, 

O  Lord,  performing  be? 
But  come,  Thou,  tune  my  harp  again, 

And  I  will  sing  to  Thee. 

[7] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Yes,  from  the  bottom  of  my  soul, 

To  Thee,  O  God,  I'll  sing, 
Who  seeming  evils  did  control 

And  did  us  safely  bring, 

Through  trials  such  as  few  have  met; 

But  those  that's  kept  by  Thee, 
By  night  or  day,  howe'er  beset, 

In  safety  kept  shall  be. 

If  we  are  God's  we  need  not  fear, 

However  dark  the  scene, 
For  God's  our  God  and  will  appear 

Us  and  our  griefs  between. 

God  will  His  children,  no  doubt, 
Save  in  their  time  of  need, 

And  when  their  hope  is  nigh  blown  out 
Rekindle  it  with  speed. 

The  powers  of  earth  and  hell  assail 

His  people  shall  in  vain; 
They  may  contrive  but  can't  prevail; 

Their  point  they  shall  not  gain. 

Though  Satan  stirs  up  wicked  men 

The  saints  for  to  annoy, 
Like  Daniel  in  the  lions'  den, 

They  safety  can  enjoy. 

The  wicked  are  like  beasts  of  prey, 
The  just  they  would  devour. 

But  God  their  councils  can  gainsay  — 
Theirs  is  a  conquered  power. 

Now  to  a  God  who  can  save,  thus 

Safely  commit  we  may 
The  keeping  of  ourselves,  and  us 

He  safe  will  keep  for  aye. 

Lord,  Thou  to  us  still  raised  a  friend 
When  we  a  friend  did  need  — 

A  friend  in  whom  one  can  depend 
Sure  is  a  friend  indeed. 

And  may  Thy  blessing,  O  my  Lord, 
On  such  forever  rest, 

[8] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


To  sympathize  who  could  afford, 
Yea,  and  they  shall  be  blest. 

Light  out  of  darkness  Thou  canst  bring, 

And  from  confusion,  too, 
'Tis  Thou  that  canst  make  order  spring 

Thee  let  me  praise  anew. 

Thy  Grace  preserved  us  all  our  days, 

Most  holy  God  triune, 
Therefore  my  soul,  to  sing  Thy  praise, 

Forever  keep  in  tune. 


Sixty-three 


The  dawn  of  eighteen-sixty-three 
Some  of  us  have  been  spared  to  see, 

But  who  shall  see  its  close? 
Its  first  month  we  have  seen  begun, 
And  yet,  ere  shines  December's  sun, 

Death  may  of  us  dispose. 

Death's  victims  have  been  far  from  few 
Throughout  the  year  sixty-two, 

Though  we  have  seen  its  last; 
But  can  we  hope  that  sixty-three 
Shall  for  our  sakes  less  mortal  be 

Than  was  the  year  past? 

Oh,  no,  Death  has  his  march  begun, 
This  mighty  archer  —  who  can  shun 

Or  dare  his  suit  deny? 
Already  thousands  on  the  plain 
Lie  by  his  mortal  arrows  slain, 

And  who  is  next  to  die? 

Lord,  is  it  I  who  next  shall  fall 
A  prey  to  that  which  conquers  all, 

Or  doth  to  conquer  seem, 
For  if  a  Christian,  I  shall  see 
That  Death  at  last  shall  conquered  be 

In  Him  who  did  redeem. 

It  matters  very  little  then 

What  time  death  comes  to  Christians,  when 

[9] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


They  can  afford  to  sing 
When  it  approaching  them  they  see  — 
"O  Grave,  where  is  thy  victory, 

0  Death,  where  is  thy  sting?" 

Before  this  year  shall  be  out 
Many  shall  be  in  hell,  no  doubt, 

Because  they  Christ  reject  — 
They  are  too  busy  or  too  gay 
And  thoughtless  to  believe  and  pray, 

And  what  can  they  expect? 

This  is  no  fancy  sketch  of  those 
Who  won't  in  life  with  Jesus  close  — 

God  hath  their  doom  declared. 
And  O,  my  God,  should  sixty-three 
From  Death  a  message  bring  to  me, 

Make  me  for  it  prepared, 

And  then  I  surely  will  rejoice  — 

Death  shall  be  but  the  Bridegroom's  voice 

My  spirit  to  set  free. 
I  have  not  much  to  chain  me  here 
Except  some  friends  I  love  most  dear, 

And  who,  I  know,  love  me. 

But  why  awaken  in  my  heart 

Reluctant  thoughts  with  friends  to  part? 

1  would  not  have  it  so  — 

I  just  would  like,  when  death  shall  come, 
To  say,  "Dear  friends,  I'm  going  home; 
Farewell  to  all  below." 


Mamie's  Death 

And,  Mamie,  have  you  come  to  rest  at  last 
Upon  the  quiet  earth  your  weary  head? 

You've  in  alternate  health  and  sickness  pass'd 
Your  life,  but  all  is  over  now  you're  dead. 

When  last  I  saw  you,  you  had  better  been, 
And  better  like  than  usual  you  were; 

You  more  like  living  I  had  never  seen; 
Of  buoyancy  your  spirits  had  a  share. 

[10] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


I  little  thought  you  were  so  soon  to  go  — 
Death   seemed   so   distant,   who    could   have 

thought  it  nigh? 

But  unawares  his  shaft  he  oft  doth  throw  — 
Perhaps  when  thinking  least  we're  called  to 
die. 

One  would  suppose  we  here  were  to  stay, 
We  give  ourselves  so  little  time  to  think; 

At  any  moment  Death  appear  may, 

And  at  one  draught  our  plans  and  prospects 
drink. 

A  short  time,  Mamie,  and  the  work  was  done; 

Death  soon  made  havoc  of  what  health  had 

gained  — 
For  who  with  Death  the  combat's  fit  to  shun? 

When  he  attacks,  the  warfare  is  maintained. 

But  was  the  valley  dark  or  light  to  you? 

In  Jordan's  swellings  Jesus  did  you  meet? 
His  righteousness,  if  He  around  you  threw, 

With  Him  you  are  enjoying  all  that's  sweet. 

However,  she  is  gone,  no  more  to  see 
Those  friends  on  earth  she  may  have 
reckoned  dear. 

When  any  die  it  warning  gives  to  me, 

And  therefore  Mamie's  death  I  notice  here. 


The  Barren  Tree 

When  I  see  Christians  bear  much  fruit 
It  makes  me  think  beyond  dispute 
That  my  profession,  branch  and  root, 
Is  but  a  barren  tree. 

Has  God  my  roots  been  digging  round 
To  make  my  fruit  the  more  abound? 
And  still  shall  there  no  fruit  be  found 
Upon  this  barren  tree? 

Nursed  in  a  land  of  Gospel  light, 
Where  the  blest  spirit  doth  invite, 
Then  how  can  I  the  message  slight 
And  be  a  barren  tree? 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


The  man  who  the  blest  spirit  wants, 
No  matter  how  himself  he  vaunts, 
In  outward  things  the  truth  this  grants  — 
He's  but  a  barren  tree. 

Then  have  I  now,  or  have  I  not 
Of  God's  blessed  children  the  spot? 
If  I  the  new  name  have  not  got, 
I'm  but  a  barren  tree. 

That  tree  a  while  may  promise  fair 
That  leaves  and  blossoms  doth  but  wear, 
But  in  the  time  it  fruit  should  bear 
It  is  a  barren  tree. 

Good  works  as  well  as  wicked  deeds 
When  trusted  to  God's  vengeance  pleads, 
His  wrath  shall  them  ignite  like  reeds 
To  burn  the  barren  tree. 

Searcher  of  Hearts,  disclose  to  me 
If  I  bring  forth  fruit  unto  Thee; 
If  not,  O  grant  that  I  may  be 
No  more  a  barren  tree. 

Light  in  the  head  alone  won't  do, 
Grace  also  must  the  heart  subdue; 
Where  that's  the  case,  though  figs  be  few, 
It's  not  a  barren  tree. 

To  outward  means  Thou'rt  not  confined, 
Lord,  when  Thou'rt  graciously  designed 
The  breaches  of  a  soul  to  bind, 
'Twill  be  a  fruitful  tree. 

O  God,  in  mercy  do  me  spare 
And  keep  me  still  beneath  Thy  care, 
And  do  Thou  grant  I  may  still  bear 
Marks  of  the  fruitful  tree. 

To  Thee,  my  God,  all  praise  belongs, 
Who  of  Thy  people  sees  the  wrongs, 
And  in  the  night  dost  give  them  songs 
From  the  life-giving  tree. 


[12] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Jesus,  My  Love 


Jesus,  my  Love,  that  Thou  art  so 
Is  more  than  all  the  world  to  me; 

Tis  joy  of  joys  for  me  to  know 
That  I  am  loved,  Lord,  by  Thee. 

Jesus,  my  Love,  O  what  a  sound 

These  words  hath  on  my  gladdened  ear; 

O  make  my  love  to  Thee  abound 

Whose  perfect  love  doth  cast  out  fear. 

Jesus,  my  Love,  I  naught  can  do, 
But  as  I  get  the  strength  from  Thee 

My  failing  strength,  I  pray,  renew; 
O  do  again  envigor  me. 

Jesus,  my  Love,  Thou  didst  bring  peace 
Unto  this  sin-tossed  soul  of  mine; 

Bidding  its  agitation  cease, 

And  it  obeyed  the  Voice  Divine. 

Jesus,  my  Love,  I  never  had 

True  joy  until  I  met  with  Thee; 

And  then  my  heart  was  light  and  glad, 
For  from  sin's  weight  Thou  didst  it  free. 

Jesus,  my  Love,  no  love's  like  Thine, 
Which  makes  its  object  truly  blest; 

The  reason  is:  it  is  divine, 

And  Thou  therein  dost  ever  rest. 

Jesus,  my  Love,  may  I  still  be 

Submissive  to  Thy  holy  will. 
Has  Thy  free  love  made  choice  of  me? 

Then  this  should  humble  keep  me  still. 

Jesus,  my  Love,  when  Thou  dost  wound 
Me,  let  me  not  impatient  feel, 

For  surely  I  in  Thee  have  found 

One  that  the  deepest  wound  can  heal. 

Jesus,  my  Love,  when  Thou  dost  strike, 
'Tis  love  that  doth  direct  the  blow, 

That  I  unto  Thee  may  be  like 
And  may  I  be  more  and  more  so. 

[13] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Jesus,  my  Love,  I  would  not  choose 
But  would  myself  leave  in  Thy  Hand 

Me  to  protect;  do  not  refuse  — 
In  Thy  strength  may  I  ever  stand. 

Jesus,  my  Love,  this  pilgrim  life 
With  me  shall  very  soon  be  o'er; 

Then  take  me  without  sigh  or  strife 
To  where  I'll  sinning  be  no  more. 

Jesus,  my  Love,  Thy  holy  Face 
I  in  that  blessed  land  shall  see; 

O   deep,  unfathomable   grace 
That  such  as  I  there  e'er  shall  be. 

Jesus,  my  Love,  meantime  prepare 
Me  for  Thy  holy  rest  above; 

O  make  me  qualified  to  share 

The  fruits  of  rich,  redeeming  love. 


To  the  Moon 

When  I  shall  pass  beyond  the  fear  of  death, 
And  soon  I  must,  He  only  knows  how  soon, 

Who  thee  thy  lustre  and  who  me  my  breath 
Hath  given  and  continued,  pleasant  Moon, 

Yes,  when  I  shall  have  passed  the  Jordan  cold, 
Thy  face,  fair  Moon,  no  longer  I  may  see; 

But  then  than  thou  a  fairer  I'll  behold, 
And  that  the  Sun  of  Righteousness  shall  be. 

The  Sun  of  Righteousness,  who  ever  sings, 
Need  never  have  a  sad  note  in  this  song; 

From  him  all  life,  all  health,  all  comfort 

springs, 
His  consolations  are  both  sweet  and  strong. 

However  fair,  thou  art  not  half  so  fair 

As  He;  however  sweet,  not  half  so  sweet; 

He  must  be  excellent  beyond  compare, 

In  whom  His  people  reckoned  are  complete. 

Not  thou,  but  He,  the  gloom  can  penetrate, 
That  overhangs  that  vale  which  lies  between 

[14] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Us  in  our  present  and  our  future  state, 

Else   there   the   blackest   darkness   still   had 
been. 

Death's  valley  hath  been  lighted  up  for  those 
For  whom  Christ  died  and  rose  to  justify, 

And  from  this  fact  sweet  consolation  flows 
Without  which  'twould  be  terrible  to  die. 

But,  with  it,  how  composed  and  calm  at  last 
The  weakest  Christian  has  a  right  to  be  — 

With  whom  the  bitterness  of  death  is  past 
As  soon  as  from  the  clay  the  spirit's  free. 

It's  true  the  best  of  saints  may  have  their  fears, 
When  in  this  valley  like  to  lose  their  way; 

But  by  and  by  their  all  in  all  appears, 
Changing  their  night  into  perpetual  day. 

With  death  I  fain  familiar  would  get 
By  looking  forward  to  it  as  that  friend 

Which  God  hath  'cross  my  path  to  glory  set 
Where  sin  and  sorrow  shall  together  end. 

But  ere  I  go  where  thou  wilt  not  appear, 
A  few  expressions  I  would  throw  to  thee 

Whose  welcome  beams  so  oft  while  I  was  here 
Was  with  no  niggard's  hand  thrown  out  to  me. 

In  childhood,  how  I  liked  on  thee  to  look 
While  round  thee  blithely  sparkled  many  a 

star, 
Wondering  where  you  got  light  for  every 

nook  — 

You  seemed  so  small,  yet  threw  your  light 
so  far! 

You  rose  with  pleasure  and  in  peace  you  set, 
Unselfish  then,  unselfish  still,  I  see; 

You  give  us  freely  what  you  freely  get  — 
A  giver  and  receiver  made  to  be. 

Oft  have  I  watched  you  through  the  storm 
pursue 

Your  path  with  resignation  on  your  face, 
For  clouded  skies  could  not  discourage  you 

Whose  object  was  to  shine  and  run  your  race. 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

And  in  the  stillness  of  the  summer's  eve, 
Thy  silvery  mantle  o'er  the  twilight  thrown, 

I  gazed  at  thee  till  almost,  I  believe, 

Did  that  my  soul  with  thy  composure  shone. 

And  still  I  gaze  and  think  on  other  days 
And  other  scenes  when  in  another  place, 

Alongst  with  other  friends  I've  hailed  thy  rays, 
Many  of  whom  are  now  in  Death's  embrace. 

But  why  with  recollections  pain  my  heart? 

They're  gone,  I'm  going,  and  we'll  meet 

again ; 
Yes,  meet  in  glory,  never  more  to  part; 

They  have  attained  and  I  shall  yet  attain. 

But,  Moon,  while  I'm  apostrophizing  thee, 
Thou  art  shining  on  their  graves  who  cannot 
weep, 

And  on  mine  also  soon  thou'lt  shining  be, 
Nor  wilt  thou  be  unsung  when  I  shall  sleep, 

For  seen  thy  beauty  is  by  every  eye, 

And  every  tongue  thy  usefulness  must  own; 

Israel's  sweet  singer  looked  not  lightly  by 
The  lamp  which  both  on  King  and  Shepherd 
shone. 

How  elevated  thy  position  is  — 

In  this  the  Christian  should  resemble  thee; 

How  any  one  who  is  an  heir  to  bliss 
Can  practice  meanness,  I  can  never  see. 

What   like   the   Moon   can   cheerful   make   the 
night? 

Without  it  'twould  be  dull  and  dreary  sure; 
And  who  but  Christians  are  the  world's  light? 

Their  actions  must  be  fair,  their  motives  pure. 

Of  no  avail  is  seeming  godliness 

When  in  the  heart  Christ's  spirit  doth  not 

dwell; 
Morality  is  but  a  flimsy  dress  — 

Will  good  opinions  save  a  man  from  hell? 

There,  now,  I  see  the  Moon  just  peeping  out 
Through  yon  rift  cloud  with  countenance  so 
fair, 

[16] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


As  might  a  sceptic  make  throw  off  all  doubt 
That  God's  own  Hand  hath  made  and  placed 
her  there. 

True  ever  to  her  trust  through  calm  and  storm 
I  think  this  lesson  we  may  learn  here: 

That  they  who  duty  would  alike  perform, 
However  circumstanced,  must  persevere. 

For  final  perseverance  will  ensue 
Wherever  grace  communicated  is  — 

Where  grace  regenerates  it  will  renew, 

Else   who   would  safely  reach  the   coast   of 
bliss? 

But  to  my  subject,  if  I  purposed  had 
To  sing,  "The  Moon,  the  Moon,"  should  be 
my  song. 

Good  motives  may  be  spoiled  by  methods  bad, 
Weak  arguments  lean  on  digressions  long. 

Moon,  thou  art  beautiful,  I'm  sure  of  that, 
And  doth  our  praise  for  thy  Creator  crave; 

And  I  prefer  a  profitable  chat 

With  thee  to  all  that  gossip  ever  gave. 

Thy  waxing  and  thy  waning  aptly  shows 

How  may  the  Christians'  graces  rise  and  fall; 

Sometimes  they  seem  so  low  one  scarcely 

knows 
Whether,  indeed,  they  have  got  grace  at  all. 

Thou  art  dependent  for  thine  every  ray, 
And  what  have  I  that  I  have  not  received? 

The  Sun  of  Righteousness  had  found  His  way 
Into  my  heart  before  that,  I  believed. 

If  thine's  a  borrowed  light  then  so  is  mine  — 
Thus  far  we  likeness  to  each  other  bear; 

But  when  thy  course  is  finished  I  shall  shine 
Through  endless  ages  in  a  higher  sphere. 

Yes,  I  this  hope  do  entertain,  sweet  Moon, 
Whose   smile  upon  our  earth  so  long  hath 
fell: 

That  I  in  glory  shall  outshine  thee  soon, 
And  then  to  thee  and  all  below,  farewell. 

[17] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Christ  All  in  All 

Christ  is  my  all  in  all,  brother, 

Christ  is  my  all  in  all; 
And  I  would  like  to  know,  brother, 

If  so  you  Christ  can  call. 

If  Christ's  yours,  I  can  say,  brother, 

If  Christ's  yours,  I  can  say, 
You  happy  are,  indeed,  brother, 

If  not,  seek  Him  today. 

Christ's  worth  the  being  sought,  brother, 
Christ's  worth  the  being  sought; 

Christ  hath  done  much  for  me,  brother, 
And  work  for  him  I  ought. 

For  Christ  I  ought  to  speak,  brother, 
For  Christ  I  ought  to  speak, 

Though  little  I  can  say,  brother, 
I  am  so  very  weak. 

Of  Christ  I'd  speak  to  thee,  brother, 
Of  Christ  I'd  speak  to  thee; 

You  know  He  came  to  save,  brother, 
Your  Saviour  let  Him  be. 

In  Christ  there's  hope  for  thee,  brother, 
In  Christ  there's  hope  for  thee; 

And  while  hope  is  held  out,  brother, 
To  Christ,  the  refuge,  flee. 

In  Christ  there's  room  for  thee,  brother, 
In  Christ  there's  room  for  thee; 

No  longer  stand  without,   brother, 
Come  in  and  happy  be! 

In  Christ  there's  love  for  thee,  brother, 
In  Christ  there's  love  for  thee; 

He  loves  you,  loves  you  still,  brother, 
He  loves  to  love,  you  see. 

In  Christ  there's  grace  for  thee,  brother, 
In  Christ  there's  grace  for  thee; 

His  grace  no  bounds  doth  know,  brother, 
It  is,  it  must  be  free. 

[18] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


In  Christ  there's  life  for  thee,  brother, 
In  Christ  there's  life  for  thee; 

Life  that  shall  never  end,  brother, 
None  can  give  life  but  He. 

In  Christ  there's  faith  for  thee,  brother, 
In  Christ  there's  faith  for  thee; 

Its  author  if  He  is,  brother, 
Its  finisher  He'll  be. 

In  Christ  there's  joy  for  thee,  brother, 
In  Christ  there's  joy  for  thee; 

Come,  and  a  foretaste  get,  brother, 
Of   our   grand   jubilee. 

In  Christ  there's  peace  for  thee,  brother, 
In  Christ  there's  peace  for  thee; 

Once  reconciled  to  God,  brother, 
This  peace  experience  we. 

From  Christ  how  can  you  stay,  brother, 
From  Christ  how  can  you  stay? 

His  loving  voice  says,  "Come,  brother," 
Look  here,  Christ's  the  way. 

To  Christ  you'll  surely  come,  brother, 
To   Christ  you'll  surely  come; 

Come  now,  come  as  you  are,  brother, 
Come,  come  while  there  is  room. 

In  Christ  there's  help  for  thee,  brother, 
In  Christ  there's  help  for  thee; 

He  gives  what  He  would  have,  brother, 
Else  how  served  could  He  be? 

In  Christ  there's  work  for  thee,  brother, 
In  Christ  there's  work  for  thee; 

For  work's  the  fruit  of  faith,  brother, 
By  works  our  faith  prove  we. 

In  Christ  there's  wealth  for  thee,  brother, 
In  Christ  there's  wealth  for  thee; 

The  pearl  of  great  price,  brother, 
Would  worth  the  having  be. 

In  Christ  there's  more  for  thee,  brother, 
In  Christ  there's  more  for  thee; 

[19] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Than  here,  I  can  state,  brother, 
But  come  yourself  and  see. 

In  Christ  there's  all  for  thee,  brother, 
In  Christ  there's  all  for  thee; 

Whatever  thou  canst  need,  brother, 
Decide,   believe,   be   free. 

Christ  lives  to  intercede,  brother, 
Christ   lives   to    intercede, 

And  what  can  I  say  more,  brother, 
Than  that  Christ's  all  you  need? 

Accept,  and  all  is  thine,  brother, 

Accept  and  all  is  thine, 
For  sure  as  we  get  grace,  brother, 

In  glory  we  shall  shine. 

Our  lives  let  holy  be,  brother, 

Our  lives  let  holy  be, 
For  holiness  without,  brother, 

God's  Face  we'll  never  see. 


Cause  of  Thanks 

Surely  I  have  cause  of  giving 
Thanks  to  Thee,  my  Father  dear, 

Cause  of  thanks  that  I  am  living, 
And  no  worse  affliction  bear; 

Cause  of  thanks  for  friends  protected, 
Oft  committed  to  Thy  care; 

Be  they  still  by  grace  directed 
And  so  kept  from  Satan's  snare; 

Cause  of  thanks  for  sympathizing 
Friends  when  troubles  heavy  press, 

Friendship  who  are  exercising 
Even  more  than  they  profess; 

But  the  greatest  cause  of  giving 

Thanks  is  that  Christ  came  and  died, 

And  to  intercede  is  living 
With  the   Father  glorified. 

[20] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Jesus  died  and  rose  to  bless  us 
With  gifts  He  for  men  received  — 

What  on  earth,  then,  should  distress  us 
If  we  have  on  Him  believed? 

For  all  gifts  I'd  God  be  praising, 
Specially  for  Christ  the  choice, 

That  He  died  proves  love  amazing  — 
O   my   soul,   rejoice,   rejoice! 


God's  Ways  Not  Our  Ways 

"Lord,  what  wilt  Thou  have  me  do?" 
Oft  of  my  God  inquired  I, 

Eager  some  business  to  pursue, 
In  which  I  God  might  glorify. 
*  *  *  * 

I'll  help  the  missionary  cause 

When  I  have  money  of  my  own  — 

Thus  hasty  pictures   fancy   draws 
In  which  the  future's  seldom  shown. 

I  wished  to  glorify  my  God, 
I  longed  for  independence,  too, 

And  so  resolved  to  go  abroad, 
My  twofold  purpose  to  pursue. 

But  here  I  had  something  more 
To  do  than  just  to  go  away  — 

Traveling   expenses  must  be   bore, 
And  I  had  not  wherewith  to  pay. 

I  felt  as  if  my  lot  was  hard, 
But  soon  a  little  box  I  got, 

To  put  what  money  could  be  spared - 
I'll  have  it  by  and  by,  I  thought. 

And  that  there  might  be  no  mistake, 
To  work  myself  I  closer  set; 

But  every  effort  I  could  make 

Still  with  some  disappointment  met. 

So  not  a  sixpence  ever  I 
Was  able  in  my  box  to  throw; 

Thus  immigrating  was  put  by  — 
God's  purpose  being  not  to  go  — 

[21] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


For  Providence  a  language  hath 

And  here  seemed  to  say  quite  plain: 
"You  can't  go,  I've  blocked  up  your  path, 
And  so  at  home  you  must  remain." 

"Then,  Lord,  what  wilt  Thou  have  me  do?" 

I  somewhat  pettishly  replied, 
As  if  than  God  I  better  knew 

What  way  He  should  be  glorified. 

God  answered,  "Would  you  glorify 
My  Name,  it  must  be  as  I  please; 

If  you're  in  earnest  I  will  try," 
And  so  He  smote  me  with  disease. 

But  where  was  now  the  zeal  for  God 

Which  I  had  coveted  to  show, 
I  vainly  tried  to  shift  the  rod 

And  off  its  heavy  pressure  throw. 

God  who  had  touched  my  flesh  and  bone 

I  oft  besought  His  Hand  to  flit, 
But  God  said  in  an  undertone, 

"You  sought  My  glory,  now  submit. 

"This  furnace  I  appoint  you  fear 

To  purge  you  from  your  tin  and  dross; 

'Tis  for  your  good  you  are  kept  here, 

To  prove  My  love  you'll  bear  this  cross." 

And  so  I  took  it  from  His  Hand, 

Just  as  a  token  of  His  love, 
And  now  I  better  understand 

How  God  by  such  His  love  doth  move. 

God  I  had  asked  for  work  to  dp 
That  I  His  Name  might  glorify, 

And  God  me  heard  and  answered,  too, 
But  did  the  plan  Himself  supply. 

He  gave  me  bitter  work  in  love 

Whereby  to  glorify  His  Name; 
And  if  this  business  I  improve 

It  must  be  for  my  good  it  came. 

Bitter,  I  said,  and  well  I  might, 
Affliction  in  itself  is  so; 

[22] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


But  mixed  with  love  it  alters  quite, 
And  doth  into  a  blessing  grow. 

If  God  hath  saved  me  by  His  Grace, 
Christ  first  and  last  the  cause  must  be, 

And  I  shall  yet  behold  His  Face 
Who  suffered  everything  for  me. 

Now  what  remains  for  me  to  do 

But  praise  His  Name  who  all  hath  done, 

And  this  sweet  business  I'll  pursue 
When  Marah's  waters  dry  have  run. 

Both  sweet  and  bitter  God  is  pleased 

Together  in  my  cup  to  put; 
It  must  be  sweet  to  be  diseased 

When  faith  can  unbelief  refute. 

It's  sweet  to  be  afflicted  when 

A  Father's  hand  doth  hold  the  rode; 

It's  surely  sweet  to  say  Amen 

To  what's  willed  by  a  gracious  God. 

Lord,  take  Thy  glory  as  Thou  wilt, 
Is  now  the  language  of  my  soul; 

If  Christ  hath  took  away  my  guilt, 
I'm  sure  he  means  to  make  me  whole. 

Himself  sits  at  the  furnace  still, 
Lest  it  should  overheated  be, 

And  when  I'm  tired  enough  He  will 
Among  his  gold  refined  put  me. 

The  process  somewhat  painful  is, 
But  when  I  all  together  take 

My  present  woe  and  future  bliss, 
My  heart  it  doth  so  thankful  make. 

And  well  it  may,  for  Christ  is  mine, 
That  Christ  who  undertook  for  me, 

And  in  His  righteousness  I'll  shine 
Unspotted  through  eternity. 

Now  what  can  I  be  saying  more  — 
God  gave  a  work  for  me  to  do; 

And  when  the  bitter  part  is  o'er, 
The  sweet  remains,  for  God  is  true. 

[23] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


The  Double  Claim 

To  the  last  day  of  December, 
Eighteen  hundred  sixty-three, 

If  God  spared  me,  I  remember 
Should  His  kindness  unto  me. 

And  if  I  shall  see  tomorrow, 
Eighteen  hundred  sixty-four 

Shall  have  with  its  joy  and  sorrow 
Dawned  as  years  dawned  before. 

Some  are  in  the  grave  now  sleeping, 
Who've  the  last  New  Year  seen; 

Some  who  live  are  glad,  some  weeping, 
Just  as  it  hath  always  been. 

Many  now  are  in  existence 
Who  had  no  existence  then; 

Some  from  home  are  gone  a  distance, 
Never  home  to  see  again. 

Some  are  in  affliction  pining, 

Like  the  lily  on  the  stem; 
Friends  departed,  health  declining, 

Let  us  sympathize  with  them. 

And  for  some,  life  scarce  expected, 
Off  the  stage  they  soon  must  go; 

But  God,  by  whom  all's  directed, 
Shoots  not  from  a  random  bow. 

And  if  our  affairs  are  guided 
By  His  Hand  who  cannot  err, 

Shall  His  wisdom  be  derided 
That  we  may  our  own  prefer? 

Why  indulge  so  oft  in  sorrow 
When  we  tribulation  meet  — 

If  God's  love  be  just  as  thorough 
In   the   bitter   as   the   sweet? 

And  it  is  though  realizing 

It  His  people  mayn't  still  be; 

With  them  He  is  sympathizing, 
Even  when  they  can't  it  see. 

[24] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


At  our  lot,  however  trying, 

We  from  fretting  should  refrain; 

If  to  sin  we're  daily  dying, 

Death  at  last  shall  be  our  gain. 

Us  in  life,  while  God  is  sparing, 
In  whatever  state  or  place, 

We  His  praise  should  be  declaring, 
Who  sufficient  makes  His  grace. 

If  in  health,  let  us  be  making 
All  of  health  and  time  we  can; 

If  in  sickness,  let's  be  taking 
Patiently  the  lot  of  man. 

When  I  think  of  how  God  led  me 
Through  the  perils  of  the  way, 

And  of  how  He  clothed  and  fed  me, 
That  He's  good,  I'm  bound  to  say. 

And  now,  at  this  old  year's  closing, 
And  the  dawning  of  the  new, 

Him  to  serve,  let  me  be  choosing, 
Who  hath  brought  me  hitherto. 

If  God's  right  without  exemption, 

By   creation,   men   became, 
Then  on  some  He,  by  redemption, 

Doubtless  hath  a  double  claim. 

And  if  this  two-fold  relation 
We  would  always  keep  in  view, 

That  we  are  God's  by  creation, 
And  His,  by  adoption,  too, 

Then  we'd  see  that  God  a  double 
Claim  upon  His  people  hath; 

Let  us  call  on  Him  in  trouble, 
He  will  show  us  duty's  path. 

This  God,  let  us  serve  forever, 
Who  did  make  and  us  redeem; 

And  He  will  forsake  us  never, 
Though  to  leave  us  He  may  seem. 

Sun  and  moon  and  stars  may  darken, 
Friends  may  die  and  strength  decay, 

[25] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


But  to  Faith's  cry,  God  will  harken, 
When  to  Him  His  people  pray. 

Winds  may  howl,  and  tempests  gather, 

Ready  on  us  to  descend; 
But  we  can  cry,  Abba,   Father, 

He  who  made  will  us  defend. 

Men  and  devils  may  attack  us 

With  a  purpose  to  destroy; 
Or,  it  may  be  to  distract  us, 

Ever   willing  to   annoy. 

But  the  Lord's  Name  is  a  tower 

Into  which  His  people  go, 
Where  fenced  with  infinite  power 

They  can  overmatch  the  foe. 

O  for  more  grace,  that  I  better 
This,  my  God,  might  serving  be; 

O  for  patience,  till  this  fetter 
He  shall  loose  and  set  me  free. 

Then    to    everything    annoying 

I  shall  gladly  bid  farewell, 
And  more  glory  be  enjoying 

Than  at  present,  I  can  tell. 


Recollections  of  a  Departed  Mother 

Parents,  e'en  the  fondest  of  them, 
Will  not,  cannot,  with  us  stay; 

Though  we  most  sincerely  love  them, 
Death  may  soon  take  them  away. 

One  I've  lost,  a  tender  mother, 

Who  a  noble  soul  possessed, 
And    I'll   never   meet   another 

Heart,  like  that  beat  in  her  breast. 

Home  and  family  she  neglected 
Not  for  what's  called  pleasant  life; 

But  her  steps  were  well  directed 
As  the  mother  and  the  wife. 


[26] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

I'll  think  on  the  sweet  caressings 
Which  my  childhood  cares  beguiled, 

And  the  earnest  prayed-for  blessings 
Thou  implored  hast  on  thy  child. 

Lessons,  surely,  thou  hast  taught  me, 

Which  I  never  should  forget; 
As  thou  earnestly  besought  me 

All  my  thoughts  on  God  to  set. 

Seated  at  thy  side  while  spinning, 

With  my  little  book  in  hand, 
When  my  young  mind  was  beginning 

In  some  measure  to  expand, 

Then  thou,  with  substantial  food,  did 

It  to  feed  endeavor,  still, 
By  it  pointing  to  the  good,  hid 

In  Him,  who  doth  all  things  fill. 

E'en  now  I  could  be  repeating 
Lines  I've  learned  at  your  knee; 

Yea,  and  could  be  now  relating 
Pleasant  stories  told  by  thee. 

I   encouragement  had  ample 

From  thee,  for  to  speak  the  truth, 

Not  like  those  who,  by  example, 
Are  taught  lying  from  their  youth. 

But  the  time  I  did  enjoy  thee 

Is,  alas,  forever  fled; 
Far  from  aught  that  might  annoy  thee, 

Thou  art  resting  with  the  dead. 

Past  thy  days  are  like  to  shadows 

Which  in  summer  I  have  seen 
Chase  each  other  o'er  the  meadows 

Of  a  light  and  darker  green. 

But  though  shadows  dark  hung  o'er  thee, 
Oftentimes  when  thou  wert  here, 

Still  that  bright  light  was  before  thee 
Which  is  lasting  as  'tis  clear. 

What  though  trouble,  like  a  mountain, 
Thou  hast  passed  o'er  if  'tis  thine, 

[27] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Now  to  bask  in,  at  its  fountain, 
Light  which  evermore  shall  shine. 

And  may  thy  bereaved  daughter 
Mind  the  precept  by  thee  set; 

And  the  lessons  by  thee  taught  her, 
Through  life  may  she  not  forget. 

Sure  account  to  God  I  must  give, 
How  instruction  I've  improved; 

I've  been  taught  by  faith  the  just  live, 
Have  I  faith  in  the  Beloved? 

God,  give  me  thy  gracious  blessing, 

Knowledge  to  me  sanctify; 
For  were  I  it  all  possessing, 

Without  grace  my  soul  must  die. 

May  my  sins  be  all  forgiven, 

Through  Him  that  for  sin  did  smart; 
Child  and  mother  shall  in  Heaven 

Then  meet  never  more  to  part. 


Boast  Not  of  Tomorrow 

"Boast  not  thyself  of  tomorrow," 

Who  so  are  light-hearted  and  gay; 
One  day's  dawn  or  close  may  bring  sadness, 
Of  which  you  know  nothing  today. 

"Boast  not  thyself  of  tomorrow," 

Who  so  feels  healthy  and  strong, 
One  day  and  you  may  well  be  reckoned 
The  weak  and  the  helpless  among. 

"Boast  not  thyself  of  tomorrow," 

Who  so  in  wealth  trust  doth  place; 
One  day  and  your  riches  forever 
May  vanish  away  from  your  face. 


Boast  not,  boast  not  of  tomorrow, 
Ye  Christ-slighting  women  and  men; 

One  day  and  death  may  arrest  you, 
And  where  shall  your  boasting  be  then? 

[28] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


The  Christian's  God 

Just  what  a  God  the  Christian's  is 

I  have  now  thinking  been, 
Though  a  great  government  is  His, 

Each  subject's  by  Him  seen. 

His  bounty  unto  all  doth  reach, 

For  bountiful  is  He; 
His  goodness  all  His  works  doth  preach, 

That  we  around  us  see. 

Our  wishes,  though,  He'll  not  still  grant, 

But  oft  the  same  deny; 
Yet  what  He  sees  we  really  want 

He'll  graciously  supply. 

If  good,  prosperity  He'll  send, 

And  health  it  to  enjoy; 
If  good,  those  good  things  He'll  suspend, 

And  prospects   bright   destroy. 

His  children  are  His  special  care, 

However  think  they  may; 
And  theirs  it  should  be  to  declare 

His  goodness  day  by  day. 

In  their  affliction  He  doth  feel, 
And  even  when  He  wounds, 

It  is  that  He  again  may  heal, 
His  love  so  much  abounds. 

In  love  His  children  He  reproves, 
And  them  through  life  doth  try; 

In  love  by  death  He  them  removes 
To  dwell  with  Him  on  high. 

The  very  thought  that  I'll  in  bliss 

Of    love    the   fountain    see, 
Helps  now  to  succor  me,  through  this 

Affliction  given  me. 

Secure  I'm  lying  in  His  hand, 
Whose  love  my  wound  hath  made; 

Secure  I'll,  too,  before  Him  stand, 
For  Christ  my  debt  hath  paid. 

[29] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


To  sin  and  suffering  then  farewell, 

For  I  at  rest  shall  be; 
To  saints  redeemed  I  long  to  tell 

What  love  hath  done  for  me. 


Submission 

Oh!  why  am  I  so  anxious  to  live 

In  Baca's  Valley,  why  so  fond  to  stay; 

Myself  to  God  did  I  not  wholly  give, 
To  follow  as  He  pleased  to  lead  the  way? 

Yea,  though  that  way  should  not  be  ever  smooth, 
Though  clouds  and  darkness  there   sometimes 
should  be, 

God's  consolation  still  is  fit  to  soothe 
His  people  in  their  worst  adversity. 

'Tis  easy  for  to  say,  "Thy  will  be  done," 

When  on  my  back  I  have  both  wind  and  tide, 

But  when  these  change  ahead  of  me  to  run 
I  often  then  submission  lay  aside. 

My  present  joy,  O  how  it  takes  its  flight 
When  Providence  upon  me  seems  to  frown! 

My  prospects,  which  I  thought  appeared  bright 
About  my  ears,  how  they  tumbled  down! 

Why  so  dejected  when  I  feel  the  cross  — 

Fretting  but  makes  it  still  the  worse  to  bear; 

And  should  I  not  count  all  things  here  but  loss, 
That  I  might  win  Christ  and  in  Him  appear? 

Disconsolation  when  I  trials  meet 

Doth  argue  that  my  mind  too  much  is  bent 

On  what  I  still  should  hold  beneath  my  feet, 
Whereby  I  do  my  soul's  best  work  prevent. 

The  Lord  on  either  side  hath  bound  the  sea, 
And  doth  each  rising  tide  teach  where  to  flow; 

So  that  none  of  them  can  pass  His  decree, 
Unto  the  right  or  left  of  it  to  go. 

Then  slower  why  am  I  to  learn  His  Will? 

E'en   things   inanimate  might   make   me  blush, 

[30] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

And  should  my  soul  with  true  submission  fill, 
And  every  discontented  feeling  hush. 

O  what  am  I !  or  what  do  I  possess, 

If  without  Thee,  O  God,  I'm  less  than  naught? 
Do  Thou  my  mind  with  Thy  rich  grace  impress, 

Be  Thou  the  center  of  my  every  thought. 

Undoubtedly,  Thou  hast  a  right  to  rule, 
For  of  all  flesh  Thou  art  the  God  indeed; 

And  as  Thou  pleasest,  to  Affliction's  school 

Mayest  send  Thy  children  as  Thou  seest  their  need. 

And  O  let  not  my  anxious  thought  be  this, 

How  long  Thou  shalt  be  pleased  to  keep  me  there. 

But  lest  by  any  means  the  good  I  miss, 
Which  may  be  there  obtained,  be  this  my  care. 

And  how  by  suffering  have  I  privileged  been, 
Yea,  from  all  business  called  aside,  to  be 

In  preparation  for  the  world  unseen, 

Whenever  death  the  summons  gives  to  me. 

And  what  my  ground  of  hope,  if  I  were  now 
Away  at  God's  tribunal  called  to  stand; 

Could  I  meet  Justice  with  its  stern  brow, 
Or  bear  the  grasp  of  its  decided  hand? 

O  Lord,  my  Saviour,  do  not  let  me  be 
When  at  thy  bar  of  justice,  naked  found, 

But  let  me  stand  there  clothed  alone  by  Thee, 
Which  shall  my  peace  and  joy  make  to  abound. 

And  do  me  now  Thy  Holy  Spirit  give, 
As  earnest  of  my  free  acquital  there; 

And  this  shall  cheer  me  while  on  earth  I  live 
That  I'm  an  object  of  Thy  special  care. 

Come  rough  or  smooth,  yea,  health  or  sickness  come, 
If  God's  with  either,  wherefore  should  I  choose? 

All  earthly  good  must  vanish  at  the  tomb, 
And  wherefore  suffering  should  I  refuse? 

Arise  my  drooping  soul,  art  thou  not  blest 

With  blessings,  which  are  neither  small  nor  few? 

Is  Jesus  Christ  himself  become  thy  rest, 
Then  for  His  sake  canst  thou  not  bid  adieu? 

[31] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


To  earthly  things,  for  though  they  promise  fair, 
They  can't  impart  the  good  they  don't  possess. 

And  men  who  of  them  had  the  greatest  share, 

Have  fully  proved  they  have  no  power  to  bless. 

But  may  my  portion  ever  be  the  gain 

Which  maketh  rich,  but  doth  no  sorrow  add; 

Which  yieldeth  pleasure,  real,  untouched  by  pain, 
In  Christ  true  riches  can  alone  be  had. 

Treasures  laid  up  in  Heaven,  which  no  rust 
Can  ever  reach,  or  moth,  or  thief  annoy, 

Through  the  blessed  covenant  await  the  just, 
And  they  the  same  forever  shall  enjoy. 


Were  I  to  Die  Today 

If  I  were  called  to  die  today, 
What  would  my  prospects  be, 

In  going  from  time  far  away, 
Into  Eternity? 

To  God,  and  to  my  neighbor,  too, 

My   duties    done,   have   I. 
To  take  at  my  past  life  a  view, 

Lord  help  me  when  I  try. 

Have  I  been  zealous  for  the  Lord, 
With  true  and  holy  zeal? 

That  true  is  His  most  holy  word, 
Have  I  set  to  my  seal. 

To  do  good  to  all  I  did  try, 
As  God  his  folk  commands. 

From  blood  of  neighbors'  souls,  can  I 
In  God's  sight  wash  my  hands? 

And  to  myself  have  I  done  right, 

As  far  as  right  I  knew? 
Or  did  I  in  God's  holy  sight 

Hypocrisy  pursue? 

O  God  forgive  my  failings,  for 

I,  failings,  many  have. 
For  which,  myself,  I  do  abhor, 

And  pardon  from  Thee  crave. 

[32] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Sure,  if  aught  good  there  is  within 
Me,  Thou  that  good  hast  wrought, 

For  of  myself  I  can  but  sin 
In  word  and  deed  and  thought. 

Though  I  be  called  today  to  die, 
My  soul,  Lord,  make  by  grace, 

Willing  from  all  things  here  to  fly 
To  Thee,  my  resting  place. 


Wherefore  Am  I  Stricken 

My  God,  why  dost  Thou  so  with  me  contend? 
Wilt  Thou  now  of  Thy  servant  make  full  end? 

Remember  that  Thou  me  hast  made  of  clay, 
Which  shall  as  in  a  moment  pass  away. 

Oh!  that  it  were  with  me  as  it  hath  been, 
When  I  the  candle  of  the  Lord  have  seen, 

Which  in  His  Providence  on  me  shone  bright, 
But  now  it  seems  eclipsed  is  its  light. 

I  to  the  place  of  worship  once  could  go; 
Place,  of  all  places,  most  beloved  below. 

By  me,  O  shall  I  ever  stand  again 
Within  Thy  walls,  I  fear  this  hope  is  vain, 

For  when  I  do  on  my  condition  think, 
It  seems  I  of  the  grave  am  on  the  brink. 

The  ways  of  Zion  mourn  beneath  the  tread 
Of  those  who  have  a  name  to  live,  while  dead. 

And  it  may  be  that  I've  been  one  of  those 
Who  thither  from  right  motives  never  goes. 

Perhaps  a  God  of  love  I  did  provoke 
To  lay  upon  me  this  afflictive  stroke. 

Is  it  in  wrath  or  love  that  He  hath  me 
Chastised,  with  the  chastisement  which  I  see? 

Now  to  be  mine,  O  God,  this  to  me  show 
That  wherefore  I  am  stricken  I  may  know. 

[33] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Teach  me  to  know  the  language  of  the  rod 
When  Thou  upon  me  layest  it,  O  my  God! 

When  it  does  speak  of  wrath,  let  me  betake 
Myself  to  Him,  who  did  atonement  make. 

And  when  it  hints  to  me  to  mend  my  ways, 
Let  me  attention  pay  to  what  it  says. 

Yes,   when   love's   gentle   voice    the    rod    doth 

bear, 
With  my  whole  heart  and  soul  let  me  give  ear 

Unto  the  tidings  which  to  me  it  brings 
From  Him,  who  hath  all  healing  in  His  Wings. 

O  Lord,  that  I  am  sore  diseased  You  see, 
Do  Thou  bring  health  and  healing  unto  me. 

O   Lord!  send  forth  Thy  word  which  cannot 

fail, 
Thy  mighty  word  send  forth  and  do  me  heal. 

Too  soon  I  would  not  ask  to  be  made  whole 
Lest  that  should  be  injurious  to  my  soul. 

But  this  to  know  should  ever  keep  me  calm 
That  still  in  Gilead  there's  enough  of  balm. 

And  that  there  is  a  skilled  Physician  there, 
Who  of  my  soul,  undoubtedly,  hath  care. 

And  to  my  soul  and  body  He  doth  know 
Best  when  and  how  the  healing  to  bestow. 

Then  let  me  still  in  this  Physician  trust, 
Who  is  most  merciful  as  well  as  just. 

Yes,  let  me  trust,  and  while  I'd  trusting  be, 
Feel  and  believe  He's  all  that  suiteth  me. 

Alas,  to  think  how  men  in  sin  will  die, 
And  will  not  for  this  medicine  apply. 

But  if  their  sickness  they  aright  did  feel, 
They'd   see   that   none   but   Jesus   could   them 
heal, 


[34] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

Who  of  soul  maladies  hath  perfect  skill, 
And  power  hath  to  execute  His  Will. 

And  who  hath  for  this  medicine  applied, 
Who  sought  it  right,  that  yet  hath  been  denied? 

"Tis  not  because  there  is  no  means  of  cure 
That  makes  so  many  endless  death  endure. 

God  calls,  but  man,  a  deaf  ear  turneth  still; 
Not  to  do  good,  but  evil,  he  hath  will. 

By  nature  bent,  a  hellward  race  to  run, 

'Tis  this  makes  men  the  path  of  life  so  shun. 

Till  the  blest  Spirit,  striving  long  in  vain 
With   them,   on   their   own   shoulder   lays   the 
rein. 

Then  they,  without  a  God,  without  a  guide, 
Do  headlong  dash  into  hell's  fiery  tide, 

Which    shall   forever    swamp    their   barque    of 

hope, 
And  leave  them  'mong  death  billows  still  to 

grope, 

Where  each  succeeding  billow  doth  declare 
That  death  in  all  its  horrors  reigneth  there. 

And  O  to  think  what  glory  they'll  have  lost 
Who  shall  upon  death's  billows  still  be  tost! 

Their  loss  is  life  eternal,  and  their  gain 
Is  nothing  short  of  never  dying  pain, 

And  who  shall  with  devouring  fire  dwell, 
Who  brave  the  burnings  of  an  endless  hell. 

The  flood  gates  of  God's  wrath  is  lifted  there, 
Of  which  each  inmate  must  their  portion  bear. 

What  must  the  weight  be  of  infinite  ire, 
And  what  the  burning  of  an  endless  fire? 

The  fire  unquenchable  and  gnawing  warm, 
Are  means  of  torture  of  no  common  form. 

[35] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Forever  burning,  yet  still  unconsumed, 
For  to  a  death  undying  they  are  doomed, 

That  now  in  time  do  run  from  bad  to  worse, 
Nor  stop  till  they  inherit  shall  God's  curse. 

A  none  existence  would  be  welcome  there, 
But  no  such  boon  shall  justice  e'er  declare. 

God's  justice  them  eternally  shall  lash, 
While,  writhing,  they  in  agony  shall  gnash 

Their  teeth  with  pain,  alas!  what  bitter  moans, 
What  self  upbraidings  and  what  deep  fetched 
groans, 

Fills  up  their  horrifying  music  there, 

To  which  hell's  utmost  nook  resounds  despair. 

Forever  and  forever  down  they  sink, 
Forever  and  forever  wrath  they  drink. 

Nor  shall  their  sinking  end  at  last  their  woes, 
Nor  drinking  wrath,  for  still  wrath's  cup  o'er- 
flows. 

For  e'en  when  years  have  passed  a  countless 

sum, 
It  still  shall  be  the  wrath,  the  wratfr  to  come. 

O  sin!   O    death!   which  sin  hath   brought   on 

man, 
O  grace!  O  life!  of  which  grace  laid  the  plan. 

That  some  should  be  redeemed  of  Adam's  seed, 
When  thoughts  of  these  my  meditations  feed. 

It  makes  me  think  and  feel,  with  me  'tis  well, 
Though  I  afflicted  am  when  out  of  hell. 

Who  knows  but  God  in  mercy  to  my  soul 
Hath  made  grief's  waves  so  often  o'er  me  roll. 

Maybe  God  in  my  nose  hath  put  His  hook, 
That  I  to  Him  for  endless  life  might  look. 

And  fettered  me  lest  I  should  from  Him  flee, 
Yea,  bound  me  that  He  yet  might  set  me  free. 


[36] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


And  wounded  me  that  he  might  yet  me  cure, 
When  I  the  time  appointed  do  endure. 

And  laid  me  low  that  He  might  yet  in  love, 
With  the  redeemed,  raise  me  to  sing  above. 

If  so,  I  should  go  softly  all  my  days, 

And  with  my  latest  breath  proclaim  His  praise, 

For  none  to  praise  God  hath  a  better  right, 
Therefore  my  soul  in  praising  Him  delight. 

To  My  Heart 

Oh!  my  heart,  how  weak  I  find  thee, 

Thee  in  no  wise  trust  can  I; 
For  Himself  hath  God  designed  thee, 

Then  to  Him  for  strength  apply. 

Oh!  my  heart,  how  cold  and  deadlike 

Thou  art  in  thine  every  string; 
May  the  Holy  Spirit's  Breath  strike 

Thee,  and  then  Thou  praise  shalt  sing. 

Oh!  my  heart,  thou  wouldst  deceive  me, 

Thou  art  an  unstable  friend; 
When   thou   speakest,  can   I   believe  thee? 

Nay,  I  can't  on  thee  depend. 

Oh!   my  heart,  how  hard,  hard,   thou  art; 

O  that  Grace  fall  on  thee  would, 
Which  alone  can  make  a  new  heart 

And  keep  it  in  condition  good. 

Then,  my  heart,  thou'd  be  a  temple, 
Wherein  God  would  dwelling  be; 

And  it  joy  would  give  me  ample, 
To  have  such  a  Guest  in  thee. 


Faith  in  the  Promises 

Why  at  trials  should  I  grumble, 
Which  no  doubt  for  good  is  sent; 

Me  perhaps,  to  keep  me  humble, 
Or  backsliding  to  prevent. 

[37] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


God,  His  children  of  correction 
Will  not  spare  when  it  they  need; 

All  that  they  may  in  subjection 
Be  to  Him  and  take  more  heed 

To  their  walk  and  conversation, 

And  it  joyfully  they  should 
Take,  when  they're  in  tribulation, 

For  it  shall  end  in  their  good. 

Oh  that,  still  in  tribulation, 

Faith  in  God  I'd  exercise, 
Then  I  would  each  visitation 

See  was  from  a  God  all  wise. 

It  is  faith  our  God  which  pleases, 
Without  it  none  please  Him  can; 

Faith  writes  the  soul  to  Jesus, 
What  a  privilege  this  to  man! 

God  doth  call  Himself  our  Father, 
And  of  parents  He's  the  best; 

Who  His  elect  shall  ingather 

From  the  North,  South,  East  and  West. 

Earthly  parents  their  relation 
To  their  children  may  forget; 

But  He  who  from  condemnation 
Hath  His  children  free  set. 

Will  not,  yea,  He  cannot  leave  them, 
Though  their  faults  He  will  correct; 

Yet  He  willingly  won't  grieve  them, 
But  shall  ever  have  respect. 

To  His  promises  most  gracious, 
Which  to  them  He  spoken  hath; 

Promises  most  sweet  and  precious, 
On  which  they  may  rest  their  faith. 

As  the  needle  will  not  settle 

But  in  pointing  to  the  pole, 
So  faith  of  God  seeking  metal 

To  the  promise  points  the  soul. 

Nor  elsewhere  will  it  be  resting, 
Rest  it  can  in  Christ  alone; 


[38] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


On  Him  in  the  promise  feasting, 

Faith  thou  canst  call  Christ  thine  own. 

When  opposed  'twill  fight  and  wrestle, 

For  overcome  it  cannot  be; 
Christ's  its  all  and  there  'twill  nestle 

On  His  Breast,  secure  and  free. 

Man  his  promise  oft  is  breaking, 
Change  he  doth  as  doth  the  wind; 

Old  resolves  for  new  forsaking, 
Which  now  occupies  his  mind. 

Soon  in  turn  to  be  confuted, 
By  something  appearing  more 

Reasonable  and  deeper  rooted 
Than  what  he  resolved  before. 

Man  may  promise  and  fulfill  it 
Unto  man,  and  though  he  should 

Promise  and  let  nothing  spill  it, 
It  is  but  a  finite  good. 

Then  'tis  vain  to  be  depending 

On  a  fellow  man  for  aid, 
While,  though  he  would  help  be  lending, 

May  be  called  unto  death's  shade. 

'Tis  a  friend  that  will  not  fail  us, 
Of  which  we  do  stand  in  need, 

That  when  we  are  sick  can  heal  us 
And  our  cause  at  God's  bar  plead. 

Christ's  the  Friend  with  whom  no  other 
Friend  may  be  compared,  and  why 

He  far  closer  than  a  brother 
Sticketh  and  can  never  die. 

A  divine  and  human  nature 

Doth  most  properly  belong 
To  Him,  who  to  save  this  creature 

Man,  hath  made  his  arm  strong. 

Of  His  Father's  House  the  glory 

Wholly  was  upon  him  laid, 
Vessels  small  and  great  hath  bore  he 

And  shall  with  strength  undecayed. 

[39] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

Naught  the  promises  can  weaken, 

In  Christ  they  are  still  secure; 
Could  they  ever  have  been  shaken, 

Would  Christ  what  He  did  endure. 

God's  word  never  can  be  broken; 

Hills  and  mountains  may  remove, 
But  the  word  which  He  hath  spoken 

He'll  keep  for  He's  Truth  and  Love. 

He  a  covenant  abiding, 

For  His  own  prepared  hath  sure, 

This  their  stronghold  is  where  hiding 
From  all  evil  they're  secure. 

And  the  names  therein  that's  written 

Never  shall  outblotted  be; 
Let  who  will  with  wrath  be  smitten, 

They  from  wrath  shall  still  be  free. 

Through  the  promise  God  it  pleases 

To  man  to  declare  His  grace, 
And  there  faith  accepteth  Jesus, 

Yes,  sweet  Jesus,  doth  embrace. 

Then  for  faith  substantial  food  still 

In  the  promise  doth  abound, 
And  that  God  it  gives  with  good  will 

Men  in  ages  all  have  found. 

Then,  my  soul,  what  wouldest  thou  have  more 

Than  God's  word  to  satisfy 
Thee?    What,  O  what,  canst  thou  crave  more? 

'Tis  enough;  thereon  rely. 

Yes,  my  soul,  thereon  be  feeding, 

Food  like  this  there's  naught  for  thee, 

Which  Christ  purchased  by  His  bleeding 
And  His  dying  on  the  tree. 

Then  I'll  trust  and  not  afraid  be, 

But  He  shall  to  me  fulfill 
Promises  which   He  hath  made   me; 

Yes,  upon  Him  trust  I  will. 

O  my  soul,  upon  Christ  tarry, 
Though  He  seeming  doth  delay, 

[40] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

He  His  point  will  ever  carry, 
Him  the  Father  says  not  nay. 

Yes,  my  soul,  be  Christ  possessing, 

Worthy  of  thy  trust  is  He; 
Go  not  thou  without  the  blessing, 

Wrestle  and  He'll  give  it  thee. 

Who,  can  victory  expecting 

Be,  who  will  in  ease  sit  down, 
Of  the  fight  to  the  neglecting, 

For  which  promised  is  the  crown? 

Naught  so  well  the  Father  pleases 

As  believing  on  His  Son; 
Then,  my  soul,  believe  on  Jesus, 

Who  hath  life  unending  won. 

Still  whatever  may  be  grieving 
Thee,  my  soul  on  Christ  believe; 

Yes,  upon  Him  be  believing, 

Faith  be  strong  and  Christ  receive. 

By  and  By 

That  all  to  happiness  inclined 

Are,  sure  none  can  deny; 
And  if  it  now  we  cannot  find, 

We  fain  would  by  and  by. 

Yet,  while  for  happiness  men  watch, 

What  various  means  they  try, 
To  and  oft  but  its  shadow  catch, 

Which  leaves  them  by  and  by. 

If  we  right  happiness  pursue, 

On  God  we  may  rely, 
That  He  His  promise  will  make  true 

And  give  it  by  and  by. 

Though  nigh  o'ercome  with  trials,  we 

Are  almost  made  to  cry, 
And  end  of  these  we  shall  not  see, 

They  end  shall  by  and  by. 

Though   friends   we've   loved   have   passed   to 

dust, 
And  in  death's  silence  lie, 

[41] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


We  hope  we  shall  among  the  just 
Behold   them   by  and  by. 

Earth  is  a  scene  of  trouble  sure, 
Where  sin  doth  grief  supply; 

But  if  we  to  the  end  endure, 
We  rest  shall  by  and  by. 

Then  let  us  think  upon  that  rest 
Where  all  tears  shall  be  dry; 

That  happy  home  among  the  blest, 
Which  we'll  have  by  and  by. 

Lord,  let  not  things  of  time  and  sense 

E'er  dim  of  faith  the  eye, 
But  let  me  look  from  these  far  hence 

For   glory  by  and  by. 


On  the  Death  of  Sister  I. 

Sweet  sister,  you  have  died  and  left  me  here, 

A  little  longer  on  the  earth  to  be; 
At  which  to  murmur  let  me  still  forbear, 

For  God  I  hope  in  mercy  hath  took  thee. 

Short  was  thy  life  and  short  thy  illness,  too; 

Death  lingered  not,  but  did  his  work  in  haste, 
And  what  a  weight  of  glory  now  do  you 

Enjoy;  it  is  not  but  a  mere  taste. 

You  knew  Death  was  at  hand  and  you  were  still, 
Dear  sister,  willing  with  Him  for  to  go; 

Your  will  being  all  lost  in  your  Father's  will, 
And  surely  it  was  grace  could  make  you  so. 

Earth  to  invite  you  nothing  had  so  fair 

As  could  you  willing  make  with  us  to  stay; 

The  Spirit  on  your  soul  had  breathed  the  air 
Of  Heaven,  and  you  wished  to  go  away. 

Not  that  you  ever  showed  affection  cool 

For  friends  who  stood  around  your  dying  bed; 

Your  looks  and  words  were  of  affection  full, 

Which  seem  to  live  with  us  though  you  be  dead. 

But  more  especially  what  you  then  spake 
Concerning  where  you  were  about  to  go, 

[42] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Upon  our  minds  did  more  impression  take; 
But  what  the  dying  feels,  ah!  who  can  know? 

For  none  of  us  can  enter  with  our  friend 

Into  Death's  valley,  what's  there  felt  to  share? 

On  One  alone  can  dying  saints  depend, 
And  that  is  Jesus,  who  is  with  them  there. 

And  while  it  is  our  duty  for  to  watch 

O'er  dying  saints,  though  we  can't  them  relieve, 
Each  word  expressive  of  their  hope  we  catch 

With  eagerness;  so  did  we  Thine  receive. 

"I'm  not  alone,"  you  said,  and  who  can  tell 
What  feelings  under  that  expression  lay. 

To  us  it  signified  that  all  was  well, 

That  Christ  was  your  Companion  and  your  Way. 

Once,  speaking  of  your  being  weak,  you  said: 

"When  I  am  weak  then  am  I  strong,"  which  told 

Us  that  though  strength  had  from  your  body  fled, 
Your  spirit  of  God's  strength  had  taken  hold. 

You  knew  in  whom  you  did  believe,  and  hence 
It  was  that  you  to  die  were  not  afraid; 

For  faith  in  Jesus  is  the  best  defense 

'Gainst  death  that  has,  or  ever  can  be,  made. 

When  one  to  you  of  blessed  Jesus  spoke, 
You  did  express  a  wish  that  you  could  sing 

Of  Him,  and  sure  to  that  each  barrier  broke, 
For  you  may  now  unceasing  praise  your  King. 

How  well  I  do  remember  when  I  took 
My  seat,  dear  sister,  at  your  dying  bed, 

And  when  I  on  your  once  bright  face  did  look, 
I  saw  Death's  shadow,  dark  had  it  o'erspread. 

Although  Death  still  brings  more  or  less  of  gloom, 
Hope  in  the  soul  lights  up  the  dying  eye; 

In  hope  their  clay  consigned  is  to  the  tomb, 
For  there  of  God  they'll  not  forgotten  lie. 

Although  you  knew  and  talked  of  death  being  near, 
Calm  and  composed  still  your  mind  did  keep; 

Your  faith  in  Christ  unclouded  was  and  clear, 
You  died  as  sinks  the  weary  into  sleep. 

[43] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


And  when  I  think  of  how  you  death  did  brave, 
And  call  your  conversation  sweet  to  mind, 

And  how  you  trusted  in  Kim  Who  can  save, 
To  what  you  did  attain  I  feel  behind. 

But  thirteen  days  since  you  in  health  had  been, 
And  yet  you  willing  were  to  leave  all  here; 

One  surer  of  their  bliss  I  have  not  seen; 
I  do  not  think  you  had  a  single  fear. 

And  when  on  this  I  think,  I  much  do  blame 
Myself,  who  ailing  am  for  many  years; 

And  yet  would  friendship  with  the  world  claim, 
My  earthly  mindedness  through  all  appears. 

Of  death  I  long  have  an  expectant  been, 
And  yet,  if  now  to  die  I  called  would  be, 

Such  courage   as   you  showed  in   the  last  scene 
I  fear  would  not  be  displayed  by  me. 

I  hoped  through  Christ  Death  had  become  my  friend, 
And  that  he  would  not  meet  me  as  a  foe; 

But  since  I  witnessed  have  your  latter  end, 
I  question  whether  I  be  Christ's  or  no. 

And  how  to  God  shall  I  myself  excuse 

If  when  Death  comes  he'll  find  me  unprepared. 

If  I  my  opportunity  abuse 

Better  of  Jesus  I  had  never  heard. 

O  Lord  I  pray  the  feeble  knees  make  strong, 

If  e'en  an  infant  Christian  I  be, 
And  if  I'm  none,  to  Thee  it  doth  belong 

To  set  the  slave  from  sin  and  Satan  free. 

At  setting  make  my  sun  the  brightest  shine, 
Nor  at  death  leave  me  to  myself  I  pray; 

For  surely  grace  to  give  is  ever  Thine, 

Who   dying  grace  keepest  for  a  dying  day. 

Though  now  a  state  of  imperfections  mine, 
For  that  I'm  in  the  body  I  do  know; 

But  yet  I  hope  'twill  be  as  perfect's  Thine, 
When  I  like  Thee  have  ceased  to  live  below. 


[44] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


The  Sabbath's  Complaint 

Methinks  I  hear  the  holy  Sabbath  say: 

"O  man,  where  are  the  jewels  thou  hast  stole? 

The  precious  moments  of  God's  holy  day, 
To  the  eternal  ruin  of  thy  soul? 

For  sure  in  hell  thou  must  be  a  partaker 

If  of  His  right  thou  wilt  rob  God,  thy  Maker. 

"Except  that  grace  doth  interpose  for  thee, 
And  off  thy  course  of  sinning  doth  thee  break, 

Then  thou  shalt  righteous  accounted  be, 
Not  for  thine  own,  but  blessed  Jesus'  sake. 

Before  that  sin  your  heart  forever  harden; 

Fly,  Sabbath  breaker,  fly  to  Christ  for  pardon!" 

The  Sabbath  we  may  break  by  word  or  deed, 
Or  thought,  or  even  by  a  wandering  look. 

O  that  our  conscience  from  its  breach  were  freed! 
Which  God  hath  marked  against  us  in  His  book. 

How  shall  we  make  Him  answer  at  His  coming 

For  breaches  thereof  far  beyond  our  summing? 

How  oft  in  worldly  conversation  we 

Indulge  ourselves  upon  that  blessed  day. 

As  if  a  family  could  not  meet  but  be 
Trifling  the  Sabbath's  sacred  hours  away; 

Of  business  in  six  days  there's  time  for  talking 

So  that  on  this  none  need  be  work  out-chalking. 

To  talk  of  work  alone  won't  some  content, 
But  they,  alas,  will  also  working  be 

Upon  the  holy  Sabbath  God  hath  sent, 

Which  may,  indeed,  the  last  be  they  shall  see. 

Of  Sabbath  keeping,  God  gave  an  example, 

Then  woe  to  all  who  on  the  Sabbath  trample. 

In  pleasure  parties  some  the  day  do  spend; 

Yea,  as  it  were  their  own  that  day  they  use. 
All  pleasure  must  in  endless  sorrow  end, 

Which  go  what  God  ordained  hath  to  abuse. 
Say,  Sabbath  breaker,  where  shall  be  thy  pleasure 
When  God  thy  sins  shall  with  his  justice  measure? 

O  what  a  multitude  of  thoughts  so  vain 

Upon  the  Sabbath  come  to  crowd  our  mind; 
Their  ground  against  us  good  they  will  maintain, 

[45] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


We  being  quite  unable  them  to  bind. 
But  we  for  this  to  God  must  be  applying 
Who  can  alone  our  thoughts  be  sanctifying. 

Our  hands  from  work,  yea,  and  our  feet,  to  walk 
We  may  prevent  upon  God's  holy  day. 

Yea,  and  our  busy  tongues  keep  back  from  talk, 
But  thoughts  into  our  soul  will  find  their  way. 

'Tis  God  from  evil  thoughts  that  can  deliver, 

Who  is  of  all  our  good  alone  the  Giver. 

And  wandering  looks  e'en  in  the  House  of  God, 

It  is  lamentable  as  it  is  true, 
How  eyes  permitted  are  to  roam  abroad 

Throughout  the  house  the  people's  dress  to  view. 
While  of  important  things  the  preacher's  speaking, 
The  eye  its  pleasant  things  elsewhere  is  seeking, 

Which  matter  of  converse  doth  furnish  well, 
As  they  from  thence  are  homeward  on  the  way; 

One  churchgoer  will  to  another  tell 

How  gaily  dressed  was  Mrs.  today; 

Miss  such  a  one  has  got  a  splendid  bonnet, 

It  would  be  costly  with  what  trimming's  on  it. 

While  thus  the  conversation  runs  on  dress, 
The  text  and  sermon  may  be  both  forgot; 

And  many  e'en  whom  godliness  profess, 
In  this  way  on  religion  brings  a  blot. 

When  may  we  hope  to  have  a  righteous  nation 

While  church  attenders  have  such  conversation? 

The  crops,  the  markets,  and  the  latest  news, 
Each  in  their  turn  go  down  with  greatest  ease 

Into  the  mind,  through  ears  which  don't  refuse 
To  listen  for  the  same  them  well  doth  please. 

Is  this  the  way  man  should  to  man  be  talking 

As  they  together  from  the  church  are  walking? 

And  is  this  statement  true,  alas!  so  true 
It  is  I  think  none  can  the  truth  deny; 

But  if  God's  word  we'd  better  keep  in  view, 
What  are  our  thoughts  and  words  we'd  better  try. 

I  have  no  wish  fault  to  be  ever  finding, 

But  fain  would  all  of  duty  be  reminding. 

Can  you  not  get  a  word  for  Christ  to  say, 
Thereby  to  be  improving  what  you've  heard? 

[46] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Alas,  some  come  to  church  and  go  away 

As  if  for  soul  or  Christ  they  neither  cared. 
'Tis  plain  a  name  to  live  by  they  are  seeking, 
While  that  their  really  dead  practise  is  speaking. 

Of  all  who  Christianity  profess, 

The  number  is,  indeed,  but  very  few, 

Who   Sabbath  laws  don't  willingly  transgress, 
And  this  they  do  oft  from  a  selfish  view. 

Shame  to  yourselves!     O  when  will  ye  be  taking, 

Who  Christ  profess  and  yet  His  laws  are  breaking? 

Our  services  at  best  are  less  than  naught, 
Because  sin  to  our  nature  doth  so  cling; 

It  stains  our  goodliest  act  and  holiest  thought, 
And  threatens  ruin  oft  on  us  to  bring. 

Yet  for  this  let  us  not  sink  in  dejection, 

But  still  be  aiming  let  us  at  perfection. 

"O  holy  Sabbath,  thy  complaint  is  just, 
We  all  thy  sacred  hours  have  profaned; 

But  yet  the  time  shall  come,  and  soon  I  trust, 
Thy  rights  shall  by  professors  be  maintained. 

O  Lord,  a  Sabbath  keeping  people  make  us; 

Forgive  our  sins  and  nevermore  forsake  us." 


The  Pharisee  and  the  Publican 

Two  men  whom  different  motives  led  one  way 
Went  to  the  Temple  we  are  told  to  pray. 

The  one  was  a  self-righteous  Pharisee, 
A  peacock  very  much  resembled  he, 

Which  wearies  not  a  plumage  fine  to  show, 
But,  it  displaying,  prouder  seems  to  grow. 

"Fine   feathers   make   fine   birds,"  fine   to   the 

sight 
Of  those  in  outward  beauty  who  delight. 

But  never  shall  a  fair  profession  make 
A  Christian  where  good  works  Christ's  room 
doth  take. 

Self  exaltation  being  this  man's  aim, 
Into  his  Maker's  presence  boasting  came. 

[47] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


For  reasons  likely  not  untold  till  then, 
Thanks  God  he  is  not  like  to  other  men. 

His  neighbor  he  regards  with  scornful  eye, 
And  God  his  debtor,  too,  makes  by  the  bye. 

With    good    works    laden,    pride    the    canvass 

swell, 
Nor  with  his  cargo  dreams  to  land  in  hell. 

But  what  become  has  of  the  other  man, 
Who  was  an  unaspiring  Publican? 

Behold  him  standing  in  a  place  remote, 
With  eyes  downcast  upon  his  breast  he  smote. 

He  feels  the  seat  of  his  disease  is  there 
And  lays  the  matter  to  his  Maker  bare. 

Self  in  his  bosom  has  the  lowest  place, 
Hence  as  a  sinner  supplicates  for  grace. 

And  having  found  it  goes  home  justified, 
Rather    than   he    who    came    to   pray   through 
pride. 

For  he  that  self  exalts  shall  be  abased, 
When  he  that's  humble  shall  be  highly  raised. 

It  matters  nothing  what  we  do  profess 

If  we  to  Christ's  prefer  our  righteousness. 


Spring 

Awake,  my  muse,  arise  from  sleep, 
And  shake  thy  drowsy  wing; 

Come  soar  with  me  and  contemplate 
The  beauties  of  the  Spring. 

The  sun  breaks  forth  from  the  red  east, 

Of  all  our  lights  the  king, 
Like  a  fair  bridegroom  richly  drest, 

An  helpmeet  for  the  Spring. 

Hail,  fairest  queen  of  earthly  joy, 
Great  plenty  thou  dost  bring 

[48] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Of  food  and  raiment  and  employ, 
Thrice  welcome,  fruitful  Spring. 

The  sons  of  toil  do  thee  embrace, 
Around  thy  charms  they  cling; 

A  coming  harvest  they  can  trace 
In  thy  fair  features,  Spring. 

The  little  warblers  of  the  grove 

As  if  united  sing, 
And  chant  their  artless  song  of  love 

To  greet  thee  welcome,  Spring. 

Thy  kindness  to  the  beast  doth  reach, 

Thou  annually  dost  bring 
The  food  that's  best  befitting  each, 

For  God  hath  blest  thee,  Spring. 

And  now  puts  on  the  naked  trees 

The  leafy  robes  that  hing, 
And  wave  so  gracefully  in  the  breeze, 

The  cooling  breeze  of  Spring. 

And  various  flowers,  of  different  hue, 
The  richest  costume  bring, 

To  make  a  garland  rich  and  new 
To  deck  the  brow  of  Spring. 

All  nature  joins  in  harmony, 
And  loud  the  notes  doth  ring; 

Each  hath  its  time,  and  place,  and  way, 
To  beautify  thee,  Spring. 

But  while  I  muse,  I  see,  alas! 

That  time  is  on  the  wing, 
For  every  hour  and  day  that  pass 

Show  thou  art  fleeting,  Spring. 

Then,  O  my  muse,  o'erlpok  earth's  care, 

Its  toil  behind  you  fling, 
And  seek  those  happy  regions  where 

They  never  change  their  Spring. 

Now,   O   my  soul,  in  this  thy  day. 
Believe  on  Christ,  your  King; 

For  He  alone  is  thy  sure  way, 
Thine  everlasting  Spring. 

[49] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


An  Acrostic 

To  you,  dear  brother,  I  commend 
Hope  as  a  never-failing  friend; 
Once  having  it,  don't  let  it  go, 
Much  joy  it  shall  give  thee  below. 
A  heart  in  which  hope  is  a  guest 
Shall  safe  in  time  of  trouble  rest; 
Sweet  are  the  thoughts  it  doth  afford, 
Man  who   for  sin  is  self-abhorred. 
Yes,  joy  to  him  it  gives  most  sweet 
To  think  that  on  the  mercy  seat 
He  hath  a  Saviour  complete. 

To  Mrs.  C.  on  the  Death  of  Her 
Little  Son 

My  friend,  allow  me  to   express 

My  sympathy  for  you; 
See  that  you  grieve  not  to  excess, 

As  mothers  often  do. 

When  they  of  children  are  bereaved 

And  thus  rebellion  show, 
It's  natural  you  should  be  grieved, 

But  softly  in  it  go. 

A  bud  of  promise  God  hath  took, 
A  bud  which  promised  well; 

An  early  wind  the  orchard  shook 
And  your  first  blossom  fell. 

The  first  and  best  perhaps  is  gone, 

Yet  God  in  nowise  blame; 
God  had  a  right  in  Robert  John, 

Which  you  could  never  claim. 

In  saying  "Robert  John  was  best," 

No  prejudice  appears; 
Like  other  children  are  the  rest, 

But  wise  above  his  years. 

God  made  the  little  one  to  be, 
Who  in  the  grave  lies  now, 

[50] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


From  long  and  sore  affliction  free, 
Where  grief  beclouds  no  brow. 

He  weary  days  of  suffering  had, 

Which  patiently  he  bore; 
But  death  has  now  relieved  the  lad, 

You'll  see  him  pained  no  more. 

No  more  he  needs  a  father's  care, 

No  more  a  mother's  love; 
Such  things  are  not  required  where 

Departed  spirits  move. 

I  sympathized  with  Robert  John, 

And  fain  to  him  would  wrote 
The  all  important  subject  on, 

But,  ah!  my  purposed  note, 

For  want  of  courage  I  deferred, 

Till  now  it  is  too  late, 
In  that  because  your  son's  interred, 

Death  waits  not  to  debate. 

An  opportunity  is  lost 

Which  I  can't  now  recall; 
Life's  boundary,  when  friends  have  crossed, 

Ends  correspondence  all. 

But  now  the  mother  is  to  soothe, 

I  wish  my  words  could  heal; 
I'm  glad  myself  of  helps  to  smooth, 

And  should  for  others  feel. 

To  feel  for  others'  grief,  I  think, 

Christ's  followers  become; 
Of  doing  good  still  on  the  brink 

Would  any  soul  be  dumb? 

And  just  with  this  impression,  I 

To  write  made  up  my  mind, 
But,  friend,  all  I  have  said  is  dry, 

Except  God  makes  resigned. 

And  even  so  you'll  feel  bereft, 

One  sleeps  beneath  the  sod; 
Still  you  have  other  children  left, 

And  train  them  all  for  God. 

[51] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

Here's  work  enough  for  you  to  do, 

The  living  claims  your  care; 
Your  duty  eagerly  pursue, 

God  help  you  is  my  prayer. 


Hope  Deferred 

I  asked  a  letter  from  my  friend, 
But  something  must  prevent  it, 

For  though  he  promised  it  to  send, 
He  never  yet  has  sent  it. 

I  dreamed  not  thus  I'd  treated  be, 
Yet  can't  think  he  intended 

The  slightest  disrespect  to  me, 
I'm  worse  grieved  than  offended. 

Somehow  my  feelings  wounded  are, 
Yet  how  can  such  a  trifle 

As  this  my  soul's  enjoyment  mar, 
And  it  of  comfort  rifle. 

A  reason  there  must  be  for  this, 
But  how  shalt  be  detected, 

For  either  in  myself  it  is 
Or  in  my  friend  respected. 

Is't  possible  his  own  word  he 
Can  have  so  soon  forsaken, 

And  confidence,  ah!  must  it  be 
In  my  friend  thus  now  shaken? 

It  may  be  want  of  time  or  will  — 
To  say  which  I'm  unable; 

But  conscience  whispers  to  me  still, 
Well  served  behold  your  Babel. 

A  castle  building  in  the  air 
It  may  be  I've  been  going, 

But  as  there's  no  foundation  there, 
A  fly  may't  down  be  throwing. 

However,  pleasing  thoughts  I  had 
Concerning  that  same  letter; 

I  thought,  as  sometimes  I  am  sad, 
I'd  for  it  be  the  better. 

[52] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

So  daily  I  for  it  did  look, 

Until  that  I  grew  weary; 
My  faith  then  in  his  promise  shook, 

Performance  was  so  dreary. 

Then  what's  a  promise  worth,  said  I, 

If  we  will  so  neglect  it; 
A  new  experiment  I'll  try, 

I  cease  will  to  expect  it. 

What,  thus  give  up  a  letter  sweet, 
Which  hope  so  long  has  feasted? 

The  thought  with  sorrow  is  replete — 
To  doubt  a  friend  I've  tested. 

But  who  can  longer  trust  to  those, 

Once  seen  not  to  be  trusted; 
As  good  of  promises  dispose 

As  hoard  them  up  till  rusted. 

A  promise  made  becomes  a  debt, 

But  few  as  such  it  reckon; 
A  promise  out  of  date  to  let 

Is  friendship  sure  to  sicken. 

For  hope  deferred  makes  sick  the  heart, 
Which  sickness,  when  we've  tasted, 

We're  loath  again  to  feel  the  smart 
Of  expectations  wasted. 

And  so  we  brought  are  to  give  up, 
Though  it  should  be  with  sorrow; 

The  looking  for  a  golden  cup 
Placed  somewhere  in  tomorrow. 

But  sure  a  lesson  I  have  got, 

If  not  my  looked-for  letter, 
And  'twill  my  fault  be  if  I'm  not 

By  it  made  something  better. 

I  thought  my  letter  would  be  fraught 

With  consolations  many; 
I'm  now  to  the  conclusion  brought, 

I'll  trust  not  man  for  any. 

I  would  not  sing  so  sharp  a  song 
As  this  is  in  appearance; 

[53] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Less  general  had  been  the  wrong, 
I'd  exercised  forbearance. 

There's  naught  could  on  my  own  account 

Induce  me  to  be  speaking, 
For  there's  so  small  the  whole  amount, 

Redress  is  not  worth  seeking. 

Neither  would  I  expose  a  friend, 

That  never  was  my  nature; 
They  to  be  friendly  but  pretend, 

Where  can  be  traced  this  feature? 

Direct  or  indirect  I  aim, 

Not  friendship  to  be  wounding; 

For  friendship  has  a  sacred  claim 
Where  grace  has  been  abounding. 

But  to  improve  I  used  have  been, 

Whatever's  me  befalling, 
Which  for  my  soul  I  good  have  seen, 

It  sets  it  on  God  a  calling. 

Yes,  God's  Hand  in  what  me  befalls 

I  like  still  to  be  tracing; 
E'en  opportunity  by  smalls 

To  that  I'd  be  embracing. 

Of  small  things  God  doth  notice  take, 

Although  so  great  a  Being; 
And  we  of  all  the  best  should  make 

Which  we're  around  us  seeing. 

A  tide  shows  how  the  current  goes, 

A  reed  the  wind's  direction; 
Small  matters  we  should  not  suppose 

Unworthy  our  inspection. 

Of  grains  the  sand  bank  is  composed, 

Of  water  drops  the  ocean; 
Small  things  to  notice,  though  disposed 

To  trifle  I've  no  notion. 

I  like  not  to  be  trifled  with, 

Nor  would  I  like  to  trifle; 
Whoso  with  others  keeps  not  faith, 

The  breath  of  conscience  stifle. 

[54] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


It  very  oft  hath  been  to  me 

Of  grief  indeed  a  matter, 
The  promise  made  and  broke  to  see, 

And  as  I  cannot  flatter 

I  thought  for  once  to  speak  my  mind 
Concerning  promise  makers, 

Who  will  performance  leave  behind 
And  hence  are  promise  breakers. 

Unpleasant  is  the  task  I  own 
Which  I  have  undertaken, 

But  duty  oft  aside  is  thrown 
For  charity  mistaken. 

Sin  unreproved  when  we  let  go 
We  but  increase  its  power, 

And  this  is  just  like  letting  grow 
The  weed  to  choke  the  flower. 

However  small  the  matter  is 

Which  hath  this  song  suggested, 

Before  the  muse  I  do  dismiss, 
I'd  like  to  have  arrested 

Procrastination,  for  I'm  loath 
By  a  worse  name  to  call  it, 

And  difficult  it  shall  be  both 
To  seize  and  overhaul  it. 

For  even  Christians  will  defend 
At  times  their  greatest  failing; 

Procrastination  they'll  befriend, 
Which  I  have  been  bewailing. 

But  with  myself  I  will  begin, 
For  I  have  long  protested 

That  I'll  avenged  be  of  this  sin 
By  having  it  arrested. 

Though  I  may  not  to  other  hearts 
Access  indeed  be  gaining, 

I  have  resolved  that  in  these  parts 
It  shall  no  more  be  reigning. 

I  hate  its  gait,  I  hate  its  look, 
So  vacant  and  distressing; 


[55] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Its  ways  no  longer  I  can  brook, 
Its  absence  is  a  blessing. 

Professing  Christians,  if  you  knew 
How  oft  you  ground  are  losing 

With  those  your  word  you've  given  to, 
To  keep  it  you'd  be  choosing. 

Your  word,  once  slighted  by  yourself, 

Who,  think  you,  will  respect  it? 
To  heal  it  though  you'd  offer  pelf, 

Yet  candor  would  reject  it. 

I  think  there's  naught  can  make  amends 

For  promises  once  spoken, 
But  asking  pardon  of  those  friends 

With  whom  our  word  we've  broken, 

Which  in  some  measure  will  atone 

For  all  such  past  offenses, 
But  where  this  spirit  is  not  shown 

Regret  a  proud  pretense  is. 

Not  personal  my  hints  have  been, 

But  are  for  all  intended; 
Therefore,  in  stating  what  I've  seen, 

Let  no  one  be  offended. 

Too  general  has  been  this  fault 
Of  what  we've  promised  breaking, 

But  while  God's  children  doth  halt, 
Their  foes  are  license  taking. 

'Tis  no  new  thing  the  wicked  in 
For  saints'  faults  to  be  watching, 

That  which  may  countenance  their  sin 
They  eagerly  are  catching. 

God's  children  should  their  robes  keep  white, 
They've  made  a  good  profession, 

From  which  they  in  the  wicked's  sight 
Should  never  make  digression. 

That  is,  their  practise  should  agree 

And  be  on  friendly  footing 
With  what  they  have  professed  to  be, 

And  not  be  still  disputing. 

[56] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Again 

Again  with  my  petition,  Lord,  I  come 

To  Thee  Who  speech  hath  given  to  the  dumb. 

The  blind  to  see,  the  deaf  to  hear  made, 
And   raised  the   dead,  Thy  power  which  dis- 
played. 

And  now,  as  then,  Thy  power  is  the  same, 
And  may   I   hope   Thou   strengthen  wilt   my 
frame. 

My  soul  with  matter  fill  that  I  may  speak; 

0  for  Thy  Name's  sake,  grant  me  what  I  seek! 

Which  is  that  Thou  wouldst  take   away  this 

rod 
With  which  Thou  art  correcting  me,  O  God! 

For  Thou  dost  know  I  in  affliction  pine, 

But  yet  the  Hand  which  holds  the  rod  is  Thine. 

1  fondly  hoped  that  grief  would  lighter  grown, 
But  deeper  in  the  ditch  I  have  been  thrown. 

Nor  for  that  at  affliction  would  I  spurn, 
But  rather  unto  Him  that  smites  me  turn. 

For  to  whom  should  I  go  if  not  to  Thee, 
Whose  tender  mercies  cannot  cease  to  me? 

Thou  none  afflictest  willingly,  I  know, 
Then  wherefore  is  it  that  we  tried  are  so; 

Wherefore  is  ours  so  oft  a  wounded  heart? 
We  have  offended,  else  we  would  not  smart. 

The  horse  a  whip,  the  ass  a  bridle  needs, 
And  the  fool's  back  must   scourged  be  till  it 
bleeds. 

But  for  God's  children  if  the  rod's  ordained, 
It  is  that  they  by  wisdom  may  be  trained, 

Which  unchastised  one  fault  will  not  let  go, 
And  this  is  why  they  are  afflicted  so. 

[57] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

Or  it  may  be  their  graces  well  to  prove, 
And  to  a  loving  Father  test  their  love. 

In  either  case  God  doth  their  good  intend, 
And  also  His  own  Glory  in  the  end. 


My  Present  Good 

I  thank  Thee  for  the  present  good 
Which  Thou  to  me  hast  shown; 

0  that  the  future  trust  I  could 
My  God  to  Thee  alone. 

And  trust  I  will  if  Thou  wilt  give 
Me  grace  in  Thee  to  trust; 

1  know  in  Thee  I  move  and  live, 
For  I  am  helpless  dust. 

But  be  Thou  everything  to  me 
Which  Thou  dost  see  I  need, 

And  take  me  home  to  live  with  Thee, 
Where  I'll  be  safe,  indeed. 

Forever  safe  with  Thee,  my  God, 

O  give  me  grace  to  be 
A  follower  of  Him  who  trod 

The  darkest  path  for  me. 


Apologies 

Apologies  may  be  polite, 

And   sometimes  proper,  too; 
But  how  can  they  be  always  right 

If  they're  not  always  true? 

A  fancy  work  to  please  the  eye, 

Or   rather   please   the   ear; 
But  need  we  ask  the  reason  why 

They're  not  what  they  appear? 

Apologies,  if  fairly  weighed, 

Would  mostly  wanting  be; 
Falsehood,  where  truth  should  be  conveyed, 

In  them  too  oft  we  see. 

[58] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Well  framed  apologies  go  far 

Discernment   to   blind, 
But  do  in  my  opinion  mar 

To  mend  when  most  designed. 

But  that  they  time  and  talent  waste 
And  make  of  truth  a  drudge, 

To  say  might  show  a  want  of  taste 
In  one  not  fit  to  judge. 

Though  of  apologies  somehow 

I  am  not  very  fond, 
I  never  such  would  disallow 

As  go  not  truth  beyond. 

Ourselves  to  others  when  we  would 

At  any  time  address, 
We  in  the  slightest  matter  should 

But  what  is  truth  express. 

Would  we  at  all  times  be  believed, 

I  know  no  better  way 
To  get  what  we  would  have  achieved 

Than  look  to  what  we  say. 


God  Hath  Heard  Me 

I  was  in  trouble  and  I  prayed 
That  He  who  soul  and  body  made 

Might  my  affliction  see, 
And  if  He  would  deliverance  send 
To  praise  His  Name  I  did  intend, 

And  He  did  answer  me. 

And  now  that  He  hath  heard  my  prayer, 
To  praise  His  Name  if  I  forbear, 

I  would  be  acting  wrong. 
None  hath  a  better  right  than  I 
The  God  of  Grace  to  glorify, 

Who  is,  Himself,  my  song. 

Almighty  Father,  still  the  same, 
All  glory  to  Thy  Holy  Name 

Is  from  thy  creatures  due; 
But  none  than  I  have  better  right 
To  praise  Thee  in  affliction's  night, 

And  for  affliction,  too. 

[59] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Thy  Word  to  me  hath  not  been  void; 
Cast  down  I  am,  but  not  destroyed, 

A  monument  of  grace. 
In  sparing  mercy  I  am  still, 
Therefore  my  mouth  with  praises  fill 

And  then  I'll  surely  praise. 

A  little  better  if  I  am, 

With  thanks  I  should  confess  the  same; 

And  though  I  may  not  see 
Myself  as  well  as  I  have  seen, 
If  God,  by  whom  affliction's  seen, 

Be  mine,  all's  well  with  me. 

What  though  in  life  both  halt  and  maimed 
We  are,  if  Christ's  we  shall  be  claimed 

By   Him   another   day; 
As  gold  the  crucible  improves, 
So  by  affliction  God  removes 

Our  dross  in  some  such  way. 

The  operation  painful  is 

To  us,  but  then  the  right  is  His 

To  do  it,  and  we  should 
At  His  Hand  patiently  it  take, 
Who  all  things  can  together  make 

Work  for  His  people's  good. 


On  Mirth 

'Tis  said  of  mirth  that  it  is  good  for  health. 
And  if  so,  merry  then  'tis  good  to  be; 

Yet  on  my  heart,  when  it  creeps  as  by  stealth, 
I  think  somehow  it  is  not  good  for  me. 

It  may  be  that  my  spirits  are  too  dull, 

Disease,    I    think,   tends   to    make   them   de- 
pressed, 

And  makes  my  heart  to  overflowing  full 

Of  sorrow  which  no  doubt  I've  oft  expressed. 

'Tis  not  my  disposition  to  complain, 

Although  I  find  my  strength  is  very  small; 

Could  buoyancy  of  spirit  strength  regain 
I'd  make  an  effort  yet  it  to  recall. 

[60] 


CLOUDS       AND       SUNSHINE 

Those  silly  dreams  —  if  I  may  call  them  so  — 
May  help  where  strength  is  not  too  far 

impaired; 
But  where  their  great  strength  lies  I'd  like  to 

know 
In  cases  nigh  incurable  declared. 

Sometimes  I'm  joyous  and  sometimes  I'm  sad, 
Still  my  disease  I  find  the  same  to  be, 

With  this  exception,  when  my  heart  is  glad 
I  do  disease  to  be  more  needful  see. 

I  would  not  have  my  face  still  to  express 
As  mournful  truth  that  I  was  always  sad, 

As  if  there  naught  was  for  me  but  distress 
And  that  my  soul  in  mourning  must  be  clad. 

I  fain  would  think  I  am  not  one  of  those 
Whose   soul  will   feed   on   nothing  else  but 
grief, 

And  for  that  purpose  aggravate  their  woes, 
As  if  of  mourners  proud  to  be  the  chief. 

Ah!  no,  for  otherwise  doth  run  my  mind, 
Though  I've  had  trials  more  or  less  severe; 

I  am  not  to  perpetual  grief  inclined, 

Nor  would  be  always  shedding  sorrow's  tear. 

There  is  a  dignity  in  grief  well  borne, 
Which  they  are  never  able  to  display, 

Who  set  themselves  continually  to  mourn 
And  every  consolation  throw  away. 

Saints  should  rejoice,  yes,  evermore  rejoice, 
Though  they  within  of  grief  have  ever  cause; 

For  while  go  forward  is  the  Spirit's  Voice 
The  flesh  against  the  Spirit  ever  draws. 

Nor  is  this  all,  for  they  must  combat  sure 
With  foes  without  as  well  as  foes  within, 

And  trials  and  afflictions  must  endure, 
And  these  are  but  in  consequence  of  sin. 

When  property  and  friends  we  lose  in  turn, 
And  our  own  strength  doth  wither  and  decay, 

I  own  I  feel  we  are  too  apt  to  mourn 

For  what  perhaps  were  idols  in  their  day. 

[61] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

God  gives  us  comforts,  but  we  them  misuse, 
And    thereby    often    grieve    Him    more    and 
more, 

Till  He  withdraws  the  mercies  we  abuse, 

Then  we  should  sin,  not  idols,  less  deplore. 

If  we  no  trials  had,  how  could  we  know 
Whether  our  faith  in  Jesus  be  sincere? 

At  best  my  soul's  pace  Godward  is  but  slow, 
And  if  untried  would  slower  be,  I  fear. 

It  would  not  do  at  all  for  me  to  be 
Without  correction;  this  I  do  believe, 

And  what  for  that  is  best  my  God  doth  see, 
And  as  such  at  His  Hand  I'd  it  receive. 

Lord,  to  this  way  of  thinking  do  me  bring, 
Yes   bring   me,   Lord,  and  therein   keep   me 
still; 

And  then,  instead  of  being  sad,  I'll  sing 
Songs  of  submission  to  Thy  Holy  Will. 

And  when  at  times  o'ershadowed  is  my  soul, 
O  lead  me  to  the  Rock  that's  higher  sure 

Than  I,  which  shall  away  dark  shadows  roll 
And  make  me  to  rejoice  in  light  most  pure. 

In  Christians,  if  impious  to  be  sad 
It  is,  impious,  Lord,  I  would  not  be; 

But  from  a  sense  of  pardoned  sin  be  glad, 
And  cheerful  still  because  so  made  by  Thee. 

No  mirth  so  healthful  for  the  soul  as  this, 
And  for  the  body,  too,  I  find  it  best, 

Which   springs  from  present  hope   of  future 

bliss, 
The  Spirit's  earnest  of  an  endless  rest. 


The  Dream 

One  Sabbath  morning  in  sweet  May 
I  wakened  at  the  break  of  day 

And  fell  asleep  again; 

And  sweet  my  thoughts  were  while  I  slept, 
I  thought  that  worship  was  being  kept 

And  that  I  joined  the  strain; 
And  while  I  did  repeat  the  sacred  measure, 

[62] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


I  felt  unspeakable  delight  and  pleasure. 
My  rapture  was  so  great,  I  woke, 
As  had  an  angel  to  me  spoke, 

And  found  it  partly  true; 
For  worship  was  indeed  being  kept 
By  those  around  me  while  I  slept, 

The  birds  were  singing,  too; 
Each   sang   His   praise   Who   made   and   them 

protected, 
As  reason,  grace  or  instinct  each  directed. 

As  vocal  music,  none's  so  sweet, 
Psalm  singing  nothing  can  compete 

Where  it  is   done  aright; 
The  soul  going  out  in  pure  desire 
To  praise  the  everlasting  Sire, 

Feels,  as  it  should,  delight; 
Is  conscious,  while  to  this  itself  applying, 
Who  offers  praise  is  God  just  glorifying. 

And  what  more  artless  than  the  lay 

Which  birds  pour  forth  from  spray  to  spray, 

From  principle  infixed; 
A  lay  which  God  accepts  as  due 
From  birds  of  different  voice  and  hue, 

A  lay  with  sin  unmixed; 
To  birds  who  listen  must,  I  think,  admire 
His  power  with  music  Who  did  them  inspire, 

But,  to  the  vision  of  my  head 

I  none  had  sung,  the  dream  was  fled, 

And  I  was  all  alone; 

They  in  the  next  room  sang  and  prayed, 
At  first  I  somewhat  grief  betrayed 

That  I  had  silent  grown; 
But   thought   each   day   that   time   is   nearer 

bringing 
When  I'll  be  more  than  dreaming  to  be  singing. 

That  Sabbath  of  eternal  joy, 

Where  singing  is  the  saints'  employ, 

That  there  I'll  join  the  strain, 
To  think  me  very  much  supports, 
When  that  so  long  me  from  God's  courts 

My  weakness  doth  detain; 
And  shall  I  sing  through  an  eternal  morrow 
God's   praise,   unstained  by  sin,  unmarred  by 
sorrow. 

[63] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Yes,  I  shall  with  that  happy  throng 
Lift  up  my  voice  in  holy  song 

To  praise  my  Saviour  dear; 
I,  who  of  singing  am  so  fond, 
Shall  have  it  there  all  doubt  beyond, 

Though  long  denied  it  here; 
Six  years  to  sing,  since  I  was  fit  and  better, 
Yet  still  I  hold  myself  to  grace  a  debtor, 

And  am  enabled  to  rejoice 

That  God's  praise  is  not  mere  voice, 

Else  where  would  be  my  joy? 
The  heart,  if  grace  is  planted  there, 
God's  praise  undoubted  will  declare, 

Though  voice  it  mayn't  employ; 
Heart  praise  is  that  which  God  accepteth  ever, 
While  mere  lip  praise  He  accept  will  never. 


Thou  Didst  Call  Me 

"Here  am  I,  for  Thou  didst  call  me" 
From  the  dust  and  saidest,  live, 

And  whate'er  in  life  I  meet  with, 

God  Thy  strengthening  Grace  me  give. 

"Here  am  I,  for  Thou  didst  call  me" 
To   the    Christians'    battlefield; 

Crown  my  fighting  there  with  victory, 
Be  my  banner  and  my  shield. 

"Here  am  I,  for  Thou  didst  call  me," 

Suffering  to  undergo, 
At  which  never  let  me  grumble, 

Patience  upon  me  bestow. 

"Here  am  I"  and  do  Thou  "call  me" 
When  it  seemeth  best  to  Thee, 

To  that  place  where  I  with  others 
Shall  Thy  Name  still  praising  be. 


[64] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Death 

Where  human  feet  have  trod,  where  is  the  land, 
O  Death,  that  hath  not  felt  Thy  powerful  Hand! 

The  monarch's  palace  and  the  peasant's  cot 
Thou  visitest  alike,  it  matters  not 

Whether  thy  victim  royal  robes  have  wore 

Or,  clad  in  rags,  have  begged  from  door  to  door. 

The  learned  and  unlearned,  great  and  small 
Alike,  must  bow  submission  to  thy  call. 

Thou  canst  no  pity  shew,  thy  heart  is  hard 
As  adamant,  for  thou  dost  not  regard 

The  orphan's  cry,  nor  yet  the  widow's  tear, 
Nor  parent's  sigh  for  loss  of  children  dear. 

The  ties  of  life,  endearing  though  they  be, 
Must  all  be  broken,  cruel  Death,  by  thee. 

In  working  grief,  strange  pleasure  thou  dost  take, 
And   seemst   best   pleased   when   thou   most  waste 
dost  make. 

And  is  there  no  defense  against  thy  dart? 

Ah!  no,  man  sinned  and  thou  commissioned  art 

By  God  on  fallen  man  to  execute 

An  awful  sentence  which  none  may  dispute; 

And  as  Thou  sparest  neither  sex  nor  age, 
Preparing  for  thee  should  each  heart  engage. 

It  courage  takes  to  look  thee  in  the  face 
And  with  composure  meet  thy  cold  embrace. 

Yes,  it  doth  more  than  human  courage  take 
To  bid  dear  friends  adieu,  and  welcome  make 

Death  with  its  awful  terror,  striking  gloom, 
And  go  with  it  undaunted  to  the  tomb. 

Yea,  and  all  may  at  Death's  approach  be  bold 
Who  hath  upon  Christ's  merits  taken  hold. 


[65] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


O  Death,  thy  pride  was  never  brought  so  low 
As  when  thou  dealt  the  Lord  of  life  a  blow; 

Who  by  His  dying  gave  thee  such  a  wound 

As  hath  His  Name  with  matchless  honor  crowned. 

Through   Christ  to   every  Christian  death's  become 
The  narrow  passage  to  his  Father's  Home. 

Nor  need  they  when  it  is  in  view  despond, 
When  all  their  glory  lies  secure  beyond. 

And  at  the  longest,  long  it  cannot  be 
Until  thou,  Death,  shalt  also  call  for  me. 

Prepared  or  unprepared  my  soul  must  go 
Unto  a  place  of  happiness  or  woe; 

This  weary  body  thou,  too,  down  shalt  lay 
To  mix  and  moulder  with  its  kindred  clay. 

Where  thou  dost  mix  the  dust  of  friend  and  foes, 
There  shall  my  flesh  enjoy  a  long  repose. 

Yea,  where  thou  dost  all  mankind  equalize, 
The  poor  and  those  that  do  the  poor  despise. 

Then  why  should  envy  fill  the  poor  man's  breast, 
Or  pride  be  in  the  rich  man's  heart  a  guest, 

When  though  their  lot  in  life  may  them  divide, 
Equal  in  death  they  shall  lie  side  by  side? 

For  men  of  noble  and  ignoble  birth 
Alike  do  pass  unto  their  parent  earth, 

Where  nobles  shall  no  more  their  titles  bear, 
And  even  slaves  forget  that  such  they  were. 

There  surely  doth  the  wicked's  troubling  cease, 
And  weary  ones  at  last  do  rest  in  peace. 

O  that  in  time  all  would  make  Christ  their  Friend, 
And  ever  hold  in  view  their  latter  end! 

Through   Christ,   Who   is  alone   the   Author   of  our 

faith, 
We  may  alone  get  full  amends  of  Death. 

[66] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


The  Smitten  Gourd 

We  know  that  sorrow's  oft  our  lot 

While  here  we  do  sojourn, 
Yet,  Jonah  like,  how  selfish  we 

The  smitten  gourd  do  mourn! 

Our  fancy  rears  gourd  after  gourd 
Which  must  to  naught  return, 

And  when  the  Lord  doth  blast  the  same, 
The  gourd,  not  sin,  we  mourn. 

Whate'er  we  love  too  much  on  earth 

We  to  a  gourd  may  turn; 
But  when  the  Lord  thwarts  our  designs, 

How  much  the  gourd  we  mourn! 

Perhaps  dear  friends  are  gone  which  can 

No  more  to  us  return; 
We  feel  the  keen  bereaving  stroke, 

This  much  loved  gourd  we  mourn. 
Shortsighted  beings  that  we  are, 

How  often  do  we  spurn 
At  what  the  Lord  sends  for  our  good, 

O  that  we  less  did  mourn! 

'Gainst  property  or  person  if 
Some  adverse  wind  doth  turn, 

We  think  our  sorrow  is  complete; 
The  gourd  again  we  mourn. 

O  when  shall  streams  of  heavy  grief 

To  seas  of  pleasure  turn! 
For  this  we  must  look  far  beyond 

Where  sin's  the  cause  we  mourn. 


Hints  to  Parents 

If  parents  would  but  see  aright 

The  high  commission  which  they  hold, 

They  would  as  in  God's  holy  sight 
Pursue  their  duty  more  than  gold. 

How  many  parents  sacrifice 

Their  children's  souls  for  love  of  gain; 

[67] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


A  name  doth  even  some  suffice, 
A  glare  of  honors  propt  by  pain. 

And  some  again  of  different  mind, 
In  whom  ambition's  not  so  high, 

Yet  not  less  dangerous  in  its  kind, 
The  way  neglect  does  drive  them  by. 

If  parents  would  their  duty  do, 

Our  county  jails  might  soon  come  down; 
And  fewer  go,  is  it  not  true, 

To  foreign  lands  by  the  law's  frown? 

And  fewer  to  the  prison  go, 

Where  of  blest  hope  there  is  no  gleam; 
That  dreadful  place  of  blackest  woe 

Where  Mercy's  sun  doth  cast  no  gloom. 

I  know  the  flesh  is  weak,  'tis  hard 
For   to   reprove,   instruct,   correct, 

And  yet  there's  promised  great  reward 
To  those  who  these  do  not  neglect. 

Train  up  a  child  as  he  should  go, 

The  Scriptures  makes  this  very  plain; 

And  when  he's  old  he  won't  break  through 
From  straight  to  crooked  paths  again. 

Ere  further  I  advance   I'll  tell 
What  of  a  godly  man  I've  read; 

Before  you,  too,  I  think  it  well 
This  good  example  for  to  spread. 

When  in  a  fault  he  found  a  child, 

As  every  child  may  often  be, 
The  family  circle  he  called  round, 

And  then  what  follows  practised  he. 

He  opened  the  Book  of  God, 

And  did  explain  the  sin  from  it; 

Then  used  that  instrument,  the  rod, 
Which  God  to  parents  doth  commit. 

An  earnest  prayer  did  then  conclude 
This  discipline  which  is  so  rare, 

And  surely  the  prayer-hearing  God 

Would  hear  that  praying  father's  prayer. 

[68] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Perhaps  you'll  say,  'tis  very  good 

For  those  who  have  the  time  to  spare; 

We  on  our  business  might  intrude, 
And  of  it  we  must  have  a  care. 

Tis  very  fair,  I  do  admit, 
To  look  to  worldly  business  well, 

But  why  too  much  of  it  permit 
If  thereby  children  go  to  hell? 

Besides,  I  really  think  it  true, 

When  children  are  found  in  a  crime, 

A  little  time  so  spent  by  you 

Would  be  redeeming  of  the  time. 

It  might  save  you  of  mournful  years 
Neglectful  parents  often  spend, 

In  heaving  sighs  and  shedding  tears 
O'er  some  beloved  one's  awful  end. 

O  how  can  parents  hope  to  be 
Clear  in  this  matter,  if  they  still 

Treat  with  neglect  each  fault  they  see, 
Till  children's  grounded  in  self-will? 

O  look  around  and  see  what  woe 

Parents  have  on  their  children  brought; 

Are  ye  resolved  you'll  not  do  so? 
Then  duty  early  have  them  taught. 

Your  children  you  do  vow  to  God 

At  baptism,  you  know  you  do. 
Vow  if  need  be  to  use  the  rod; 

Yea,  sure,  this  charge  was  laid  on  you. 

And  though  time  may  not  still  permit 
You  to  exhort  when  you  chastise, 

A  silent  prayer  may  always  fit, 

And  to  God  it  through  faith  will  rise. 

The  proverb  here  holds  good,  "the  way 
The  twig  is  bent  the  tree  inclines;" 

The  young  mind  always  seeks  some  stay 
Round  which  it  eagerly  entwines. 

The  child  upon  its  mother's  knee 
Her  countenance  can  early  read; 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

Her  smile  or  frowning,  as  these  be, 
Its  smile  or  weeping  doth  succeed. 

Then  sooner  than  we  are  aware 
The  infant  mind  may  be  impresst, 

And  parents  should  take  every  care 
To  sow  the  seed  that  shall  yield  best. 

Samuel,  Timothy  and  others, 

Holy  Scriptures  doth  record, 
Should  be  held  forth  by  you,  mothers; 

Example  leads  unto  the  Lord. 

Oh!  parents  do  your  duty  well, 
Bearing  in  mind  this  awful  truth 

That  it's  for  Heaven  or  for  Hell 

You're  training  up  your  every  youth. 


To  My  Sisters 

My  dear  sister  Catharine, 

And  loved  Eliza,  too, 
I  purposed  have  while  life  is  mine 

To  write  to  both  of  you. 

Your  sister  Mary  invalid 

For  years  now  hath  been; 
But  God  was  very  kind  indeed 

To  me  throughout  that  scene, 

In  that  my  sisters  He  did  spare 

With  me  to  sympathize, 
Who  surely  unremitting  care 

For  me  didst  exercise. 

Such  kindness  both  of  you  have  shown, 

My  sisters  sweet  to  me, 
That  if  I  were  it  not  to  own, 

Ungrateful  I  would  be. 

So  well  you  with  my  weakness  bore 

That  sometimes  I  forgot 
Almost  that  strength  was  mine  no  more, 

And  that  I  work  could  not. 

I  for  the  most  part  was  content 
And  happy  as  you  know; 

[70] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

For  God  this  strange  disease  Who  sent 
Did  grace  to  bear't  bestow. 

Yes,  grace  to  bear't  in  some  degree 

I  think  I  must  have  got, 
Else  I  could  not  so  happy  be 

With  this  so  strange  a  lot. 

My  saddest  moments  witness  can, 

For  who's  not  sometimes  sad, 
How  when  with  grief  nigh  overran 

You  strove  to  make  me  glad? 

Nor  did  you  often  strive  in  vain 

Such  times  my  heart  to  cheer; 
A  sister's  love  can  soothe  much  pain, 

Thank  you,  my  sisters  dear. 

I  no  encumbrance  reckoned  was 

By  you  my  sisters  kind; 
And  sure  I  am  this  is  one  cause 

I  have  not  more  repined. 

Affliction's  path  it  helps  to  smooth 
When  friends  compassion  show; 

That  words  and  looks  and  smiles  can  soothe, 
I  have  a  right  to  know. 

And  though  I  cannot  compensate, 

I  well  can  comprehend, 
And  know  how  to  appreciate 

The  kindness  of  a  friend. 

Your  kindness  was  without  pretense, 

Which  gratefully  I  own; 
And  God  will  surely  recompense 

The  kindness  you  have  shown ; 

Who  to  His  servants  doth  regard 

As  to  Himself  what's  done, 
And  you,  my  sisters,  He'll  reward 

Perhaps  when  I  am  gone. 

For  go  I  must  and  that  ere  long, 

My  sisters  it  may  be, 
But  I  have  consolation  strong 

In  that  Christ  died  for  me. 

[71] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


And  this  is  calculated  still 

Where  it's  enjoyed,  to  give 
A  joy  which  death  itself  can't  kill, 

For  it  shall  time  outlive, 

Compared  with  which  the  joys  of  earth 

Are  wanting  at  the  best; 
Though  oft  esteemed  above  their  worth 

They  leave  the  soul  unblest. 

I  don't  despise,  because  I  can't 

Earth's  pleasures  much  enjoy; 
It  should  be  little  grief  to  want 

What  might  the  soul  destroy. 

Earth's  good  things  but  destroy  when  made 

The  portion  of  the  soul, 
The  god  with  gold  that's  overlaid 

Bids  fairest  for  control. 

Yet  gold  and  pleasureseekers,  too, 

When  death  their  vitals  seize, 
Must  give  up  all  they  now  pursue, 

Death's  hand  each  joy  shall  freeze. 

But  come  what  will,  the  saint  can  sing 

Of   everlasting   joy, 
For  naught  from  him  his  joy  can  wring, 

Nor  it  e'en  death  destroy. 

'Tis  needless  further  to  discuss 

Which  joy  is  best  to  choose; 
May  God  grant  that  to  each  of  us 

Which  we  by  death  can't  lose. 

And  having  as  I  hope  this  joy, 

Let  life  be  long  or  short, 
His  Glory  shall  my  thoughts  employ 

Whose  grace  did   me   support. 

And  pray,  dear  sisters,  that  I  may 

God   glorifying   be; 
I've  imperfections,  therefore  pray 

That  grace  be  given  me. 

My  life  in  vain  has  not  been  spent 
If  God  is  glorified; 

[72] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

In  this  affliction  He  hath  sent 
And  is  it  sanctified. 

I  hope  it  is  in  some  degree, 

For  I  footprints  of  grace 
Can  through  my  whole  affliction  see, 

And  these  I  love  to  trace. 

If  God  has  plucked  me  as  a  brand 

From  the  devouring  flame, 
I  sure  acknowledge  should  His  Hand 

And  glorify  His  Name; 

And  sweet  work  'twould  be  to  record 

As  I  have  seen  to  be, 
The  gracious  dealings  of  the  Lord 

With  such  a  one  as  me. 

For  I  am  none  of  those  who  can 

By  good  works  merit  Heaven; 
No,  but  I'm  for  the  better  plan, 

Through  grace  to  be  forgiven. 

And  of  my  hope  the  ground  is  this, 

Unworthy  though  I've  been, 
Christ's  righteousness  sufficient  is 

From   justice   me   to   screen. 

And  may  His  Spirit  sanctify 

His  servant  that  I  may 
When  comes  the  time  that  I  must  die, 

No  longer  wish  to  stay. 

Death  of  his  terrors  stript  should  be; 

Looked  out  for  as  a  friend, 
Which  God  one  day  to  set  us  free 

Shall  surely  to  us  send. 

Exhausted  nature  longs  to  have 

Uninterrupted   rest, 
And  glad  would  be  to  find  the  grave, 

That  refuge  last  and  best. 

But  though  afflicted,  'twould  be  wrong 

Of  life  to  weary  grow; 
While  God  is  pleased  life  to  prolong, 

I  am  content  below. 

[73] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


"Tis  true  I've  had  a  lengthened  scene 

Of  illness,  yet  believe 
'Tis  good  I  have  afflicted  been 

And  chastisement  receive. 

Affliction's  school  may  be  despised, 

But  I  have  learned  there 
To  have  my  graces  exercised 

More  than  I  could  elsewhere. 

And  though  it  terminate  in  death, 

I'll  be  a  gainer  still, 
If  God,  Who  given  hath  this  breath, 

Receive  my  spirit  will. 

It  is  a  fact  that  I  must  die, 

How  soon  I  do  not  know; 
This  body  in  the  grave  must  lie, 

It  back  to  dust  must  go. 

And  apprehending  my  demise 

Not  distant  far  to  be, 
And  knowing  you  would  not  despise 

Your  sister's  poetry, 

I  thought  a  few  lines  write  I  would, 
Before  strength  quite  had  flown, 

Expressive  of  my  gratitude 
For  kindness  you  have  shown. 

And  'tis  encouraging  to  me, 

When  I  have  done  my  best, 
Heart  language  understood  can  be, 

However  ill  expressed. 

I  know  worse  lines  accept  you  would, 

From  sister  Mary's  hand; 
In  these  you  may  find  something  good, 

But  look  for  nothing  grand. 

Much  more  I  might  and  should  have  said, 

But  let  this  now  suffice; 
Through  life  we've  been  mysterious  led, 

But  God  we  know  is  wise. 

May  He  to  each  impart  His  Grace, 
In   Whom  if  we   depend, 

[74] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


He  shall  to  us  in  every  place 
Be  an  unfailing  Friend. 

And  now  I'd  bid  you  both  farewell, 
My  sisters  kind  and  sweet, 

Hoping   we   shall   together   dwell 
Where  joy  we'll  have  complete. 


The  Search 

How  goes  it  with  my  heart  today? 

O  let  me  search  and  see; 
Doth  it  respond  to  what  I  say, 

Therewith  doth  it  agree? 

To  say  with  those  I'm  ready  still, 
Who  speak  with  me  of  God, 

As  being  ever  to  His  Will 
Submissive  'neath  the  rod. 

They  say,  "that  all  God  doth  is  well," 

With  which  I  do  agree; 
Is  this  of  words  the  mere  swell, 

Or  goes  my  heart  with  me? 

Though  I've  religion  of  the  lip, 

Yet  that  religion's  naught 
Which  doth  not  of  the  heart  take  grip, 

It  is  not  Spirit  taught. 

Alas!  how  many  people  say, 

"Lord,  Lord,"  and  for  Him  shout, 

Who  do  in  truth  but  Him  betray, 
Though  seeming  so  devout. 

They  come  and  God  compass  with  lies, 

As  if  He  did  not  see 
That  they  Him  in  their  heart  despise, 

Whose  they  profess  to  be. 

Shall  God  accept  of  words  the  sound, 
When  there  is  in  the  heart 

No  wish  when  sought  for  can  be  found, 
But  bids  Him  to  depart? 

He  for  a  while  at  such  may  wink, 
Nor  shall  He  do  so  long, 

[75] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


For  at  His  Hand  they'll  surely  drink 
His  wrath,  for  them  made  strong. 

As  lip  religion  Thou  wilt  not, 

O   Lord,  accepting  be; 
Of  sin  my  heart  cleanse  from  each  spot, 

Rid  it  of  all  but  Thee. 

Make  my  religion  of  the  heart, 

There  make  it  to  abound, 
So  that  of  hypocrites  the  art 

It  won't  to  have  be  found. 

And  when  me  Providence  doth  cross 

With  trials  manifold, 
May  I  lose  nothing  but  the  dross; 

O   Lord,  preserve  the  gold. 

Yes,  for  Thy  glory  it  preserve, 

Dictate  and  hear  my  prayer; 
From  Thy  truth  let  me  never  swerve, 

Of  grace  make  me  an  heir. 


The  Sabbath 

Hail!  holy  Sabbath,  sweetest  of  the  seven, 
On  earth  fair  emblem  of  our  fairer  Heaven; 

The  day  that  stamp'd  with  Christ's  own  image 

fair, 
That  congregates  His  people  here  and  there. 

To  worship  Him  in  spirit  and  in  truth, 
Age  bending  o'er  a  staff  and  blooming  youth. 

And  childhood,  too,  a  succor  here  may  find, 
New  milk  for  babes  His  royal  will  subjoined. 

The  day  that  is,  or  rather,  ought  to  be 
From  every  noise  of  worldly  business  free; 

For  Oh,  alas!  in  part  it  is  but  kept, 
Even  on  its  holy  borders  sin  hath  crept. 

Lord  haste  the  time  when  sin's  dominion  shall 
Shake  to  its  base  and  in  confusion  fall, 

[76] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


To  make  a  way  in  every  land  and  clime 
For  the  millennium  day,  O  blessed  time! 

When  peace  shall  as  a  river  flowing  seem, 
And  righteousness  like  to  a  mighty  stream; 

When  without  fail  to  all  shall  be  unfurled 
The  banner  of  the  cross  throughout  the  world; 

When  Pagan,  Turk  and  Jew,  shall  all  agree 
To  join  the  Christian  and  like  brothers  be; 

From  tyranny  and  despotism  free. 
The  earth  shall  hail  one  holy  jubilee. 

The  land  her  Sabbath  shall  enjoy  in  peace, 
And  every  implement  of  war  shall  cease. 

Rejoice,  my  soul,  to  think  when  all  shall  end, 
Thou  shalt  an  everlasting  Sabbath  spend 

Where  saints  doth  sing  with  harps  well  tuned 

by  love, 
Forever  with  angelic  choirs  above; 

That  holy  place  where  sin  ne'er  mars  a  tone 
In  all  the  music  round  the  Eternal  Throne. 


Looking  to  God 


O  God,  I  would  look  up  to  Thee, 
Who  see'st  not  as  man  dost  see; 
For  sure  Thou  me  invited  hast 
To  look  to  Thee,  and  also  cast 
On  Thee  my  every  grief  and  care, 
And  Thou  the  same  for  me  wilt  bear. 
If  I'll  not  look  how  can  I  see, 
If  obstinate,  how  saved  be? 

Lord  make  me  still  so  look  that  I 
On  Thee  as  my  God  may  rely; 
For  if  in  Thee  I  cease  to  trust, 
Immediately  my  faith  shall  rust. 
When  graces  are  not  exercised 
They  rust,  nor  need  we  be  surprised, 
For  it  is  exercising  right 
That  keeps  the  graces  clear  and  bright. 

[77] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Though  I  can  not  command  a  sigh, 
Nor  breathe  a  prayer,  yet,  if  my  eye 
I  lift  believingly  toward 
My  God,  He  will  that  look  regard. 
Sure  none  in  truth  can  yet  complain 
That  God  has  bid  them  look  in  vain. 
Then  I  would  look,  and  will  expect, 
O  Lord,  Thou  wilt  my  steps  direct. 

Unto  my  feet  be  Thou  a  light 
To  guide  me  through  life's  dreary  night; 
For  if  Thou  wilt  not  be  my  guide, 
In  whom,  in  whom,  shall  I  confide? 
With  patience,  Lord,  still  make  me  bear 
The  trials  which  fall  to  my  share; 
For  it  is  grace  which  can  make  sweet 
The  bitter  trials  which  we  meet. 

Yes,  'tis  Thy  Grace  alone  which  can 
Afflictions  qualify  to  man; 
O  Lord,  I  humbly  with  Thee  plead, 
Give  to  me  what  Thou  see'st  I  need. 
My  ignorance  make  to  depart, 
Give  me  an  understanding  heart; 
For  darkness  worse  than  Egypt's  far 
Dwells  there  without  the  morning  star. 

Thy  holy  statutes  thereon  write 
That  I  may  have  an  inward  light; 
Yes,  put  Thy  law  my  heart  within, 
That  I  may  hate  the  thoughts  of  sin. 
O  feed  my  soul,  I  pray  Thee,  Lord, 
On  the  pure  doctrines  of  Thy  word; 
Feasting  my  soul  I  would  be  fain 
On  milk  and  honey  of  Canaan, 

Which  through  the  Scriptures  floweth  free, 
And  this  is  just  the  food  for  me. 
O  Lord,  Thou  rich  in  grace  art  still, 
Who  with  right  food  each  soul  can  fill; 
Sure  all  for  whom  Christ's  Blood  was  shed, 
On  royal  dainties  shall  be  fed; 
For  royal  dainties  Thou  hast  given, 
And  shall,  to  every  heir  of  Heaven. 

By  whom  can  this  truth  be  denied, 
That  Thou  didst  food  for  souls  provide; 

[78] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Sure  Thou  substantial  food  didst  give, 
That  thereon  famished  souls  might  live. 
So  none  of  want  need  dying  be 
When  bread  of  life  is  offered  free; 
And  yet  there  are  who'd  die  before, 
They'd  beggars  come  to  Mercy's  door. 

And  is  it  not  a  wonder,  say, 

That  men  their  lives  so  throw  away? 

Alas!  'tis  want  of  appetite 

That  makes  so  many  this  bread  slight. 

For  if  it  once  they  would  but  try, 

They'd  find  it  would  them  satisfy; 

Sure  all  who  tasted  have  this  food 

Can  testify  that  it  is  good. 

Than  life,  what  more  desire  should  we, 
Than  death,  what  dreaded  more  should  be? 
Lord,  life  I  ask,  nor  me  deny 
The  life  that  shall  all  death  defy; 
Grant  that  my  spirit  may  be  fed 
On  Jesus   Christ  the  living  bread; 
Yes,  Lord,  this  precious  bread  me  give 
That  I  forevermore  may  live. 

On  husks  my  soul  can  never  thrive, 

They  never  could  it  keep  alive; 

Then  let  me,  Jesus,  not  despise 

And  die  with  life  before  my  eyes. 

If  I  in  this  my  day  neglect 

Salvation,  what  can  I  expect? 

Howe'er  beneath  false  hopes  I've  basked, 

When  hypocrites  shall  be  unmasked, 

But  that  with  them  I  must  go  dwell 

Forever  in  the  hottest  hell; 

The  hottest  hell  sure  theirs  shall  be 

Who  do  practise  hypocrisy. 

No  character  there's  to  be  had 

Here  or  in  hell  as  theirs  so  bad; 

On  earth,  in  hell,  they  are  the  worst, 

And  shall  be  of  the  cursed,  most  cursed. 

To   follow  Christ  they  now  profess, 
Yet  sell  him  oft  would  for  far  less 
Than  Judas  did,  which  goes  to  prove 
That  they  did  Jesus  never  love. 


[79] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

And  O  have  I  my  master  sold 
For  copper,  silver  or  for  gold? 
My  soul  I  ask,  and  answer  me, 
Was  ever  Jesus  sold  by  thee? 

Look  back,  think  deep,  deceive  me  not, 
Lest  my  religion  proves  a  blot; 
Look  upward,  forward,  conscience  do 
The  office  God  assigns  to  you; 
I  charge  you  candid  truth  me  tell, 
Have  I  sold  or  would  Jesus  sell? 
I  have  professed  for  Him  to  be, 
Wherewith   doth   practice   well   agree. 

What  conscience  says  I  can't  despise; 
Practice,  profession  oft  belies; 
I  have  Him  treated  ill  I  know, 
But  yet  I  would  not  let  Him  go. 
Blest  Jesus  I  would  hold  Thee  fast 
As  my  dear  Saviour  to  the  last; 
And  by  temptation  when  o'ertook, 
O  help  me  still  to  Thee  to  look; 
Yes,  look  to  Thee  for  grace  and  strength 
That  mine  be  conquered  foes  at  length, 
And  when  I  victory  obtain, 
I'll  see  I  have  not  looked  in  vain. 


Friendship 

Part  First  —  Worldly  Friendship 

The   bleak  winds   of   adversity 
Proves   friendship    I    am    sure; 

I  ruined  was  in  my  estate, 
The  fact  is  I  was  poor. 

I  looked  around  for  sympathy, 
Where  erst  mine  had  me  led; 

The  friends  so-called  were  still  alive, 
But  sympathy  was  dead. 

They  knew  me  not,  nor  wished  to  know 

A  friend  in  such  a  plight; 
They  tantalized  till  I  was  sick 

Of  being  in   their   sight, 

[so] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


And  wished  myself  hid  in  some  cave 

From  strife  of  tongues  a  while, 
And  thought  if  God  would  on  my  lot 

Again  vouchsafe  a  smile, 

My  friends  I  better  would  select 

Than  I  had  done  of  old; 
Nor  friendship  strive  to  cultivate 

In  soil  for  it  too  cold. 

I  learned  by  experience  then, 

What  I  might  known  before, 
That  wealth-drawn  friends  when  wealth  decays 

Will  be  your  friends  no  more. 

For  one  by  one  they  will  withdraw, 

Though  legion  they  have  been, 
Until  e'en  one  you'll  not  can  count 

Where  twenty  you  have  seen. 

Exaggeration  this  is  not, 

But  truth  as  sad  as  true; 
Your  means,  if  small,  few  friends  you'll  have, 

I  need  not  say  how  few, 

For  all  must  know  who  have  it  proved, 
Friends  which  to  Mammon  cling, 

No  sooner  riches  take  their  flight, 
Than  they  are  on  the  wing. 

'Twas  always  thus  and  still  shall  be 

Where  worldiness  prevail, 
The  moment  you  most  need  a  friend, 

Earth-minded  friends  most  fail. 

The  love  of  God  being  not  in  them, 

They  cannot  sympathize; 
Pretend  or  proffer  as  they  may, 

To  trust  them  is  not  wise, 

For  if  our  happiness  we  should 

At  their  disposal  place, 
They  soon  of  it  would  so  dispose 

As  would  leave  of  it  no   trace. 

Such  is  the  friendship  which  the  world 
Can,  and  can  only,  show; 

[81] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


A  poisoned  arrow  at  the  best 
Throws    this    deceitful    bow. 

This  arrow  hath  its  thousands  slain, 

Is  thousands  slaying  still; 
Ten  thousand  birds  which  promise  fair, 

Doth  worldly  friendship  kill. 

It  offers  what  it  cannot  give, 

What  it  did  ne'er  possess; 
It  offers  pleasure,  wealth  and  fame, 

Yea,    even   happiness. 

And  though  it  should  give  wealth  and  fame, 

And  pleasure,  what  are  they? 
Short  lived,  ill  named,  when  happiness 

Is  not  found  in  that  way. 

O  worldly  friendship,  what  art  thou? 

A  sunbeam  on  the  wave, 
A  bubble  glancing  in  the  eye, 

A   painting   o'er   the   grave, 

Which   artfully   by   Satan's   hand 

Is  placed  there  to  deceive, 
The  simple  shadows  who  pursue 

And  substance  them  believe. 

To  personalities  I'm  not 

Determined  to  descend, 
But  as  a  whole  would  say  the  world 

Is  a  deceitful  friend. 

And  what  it  was  and's  like  to  be, 

I  mean  as  much  to  say, 
As  what  it's  found  to  be  when  tried 

'Tis  at  the  present  day. 

It's  friendship's  enmity  with  God, 

It  fairer  who  dare  paint? 
Its  frowns  are  mostly  leveled  at 

Some   poor,   grief-worn   saint. 

O  may  I  live  through  grace  alike, 

Above  its  smile  and  frown; 
As  what  it's  found  to  be  when  tried 

Compared   with   life's   sweet   crown. 

[82] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

My  business  in  it  chiefly  is 

Salvation  to  obtain, 
To  think  which  should  help  me  to  bear 

Unmoved  its  cold  distain. 

The  bleak  winds  of  adversity 

Proves  friendship  I  am  sure; 
Give  me  a  friend  that's  heart  to  heart 

Right  principled,  though  poor. 


Friendship 

Part   Second  —  True   Friendship 

From  worldly  friendship  let  me  turn, 

Or  careless  pass  it  by, 
A  nobler  object  to  pursue 

At  present  let  me  try. 

E'en  friendship  without  counterfeit, 
Which  needs  no  mask  to  wear, 

Its  lovely  face  fain  would  I  see, 
Its  soothing  voice  fain  hear. 

A  slight  acquaintance  with  it  I 
To  have,  have  privileged  been; 

And  why  I  should  not  love  it  still 
No  reason  I  have  seen. 

True  friendship  which  to  broken  hearts 

Brings  mostly  some  relief, 
If  it  should  be  to  me  denied 

I  think  I'd  die  with  grief. 

To  have  a   sympathizing  friend 
To  whom  we  may  disclose 

Our  sorrows,  though  it  can't  remove, 
Will  mitigate  our  woes. 

For  sympathy,  by  word  or  look 

Expressed,  will  rarely  fail 
Those   sorrows   to   alleviate 

Which  it  would  gladly  heal. 

True  friendship  doth  not  its  abode 
In  every  bosom  make, 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Only  where  grace  prepares  the  soil 
Its  lasting  root  will  take. 

Yes,  there  'twill  grow, 

And  will  diffuse  its  balmy  odors  round; 
Though  hearts  which  is  to  feeling  dead 

May  call't  an  empty  sound. 

Nor  to  be  envied  is  their  case 
Whose  heart  is  friendship  proof; 

From  consolations  which  they  might 
Enjoy,  they  stand  aloof. 

I  know  'tis  rare,  and  for  that  cause 
Should   be    more   eager   sought, 

"Pis   none   of   those   commodities 
Which  may  be  sold  or  bought. 

It  is  the  gift  of  Him  Who  is 

The  High  and  Holy  One; 
Inhabiting   Eternity, 

Who  spake  and  it  was  done. 

And  as  His  gift,  and  His  alone, 

We  ever  value't  should; 
Not  given  us  for  selfish  ends, 

But  to  seek  others'  good. 

True  friendship  how  I  long  to  see 

Thy    pleasure  -  giving    face; 
There's  music  in  thy  every  tone, 

In    every   movement   grace. 

And  who  art  thou  who  art  so  fair 

And  lovely  to  the  view, 
Whose  value  doth  so  far  transcend 

The  fine  gold  of  Peru? 

Thou'rt  she  that  wipes  the  widow's  tears, 

That  stays  the  orphan's  cry; 
Thrice  welcome  to  my  aching  heart, 

Sweet  daughter  of  the  sky. 

But  friendship,  though  thou  art  so  sweet 

In  those  who  thee  possess, 
And  though  thou  art  so  very  sweet 

To  hearts  wrung  with  distress, 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

Thou  art  but  given  for  a  while, 

Man  dies  and  where  is  he? 
Then  friendships  which  in  life  he  formed 

Lives    but    in    memory. 

Yet  friendship  is  not  dead  but  lives, 

For  still  there  is  a  Friend, 
Though  friend  and  brother  both  should  die, 

On  whom  we  may  depend. 

Friends  may  prove  false,  e'en  mothers  may 

Cease   to    compassionate 
Their  children;  still  this  Friend's  the  same, 

Whose   love  cannot  abate. 

And  shall  God's  children  friendship  want 

While  sojourning  below? 
The  blest  experience  of  each 

I'm  sure  would  answer,  No. 

For  friendship  emanates  from  Him, 

Its  origin  is  He 
Who  is  the  self-existing  God, 

Hence  cannot  cease  to  be. 

Friend  of  the  friendless  be  my  Friend, 

And  then  I  am  secure; 
Though  friends  I  have  esteemed  grow  cold, 

One  Friend  I'll  still  have  sure, 

Whose  friendship  makes  affliction  sweet, 

Yea,  can  remove  the  rod; 
Nor  need  we  wonder  for  it  is 

The  friendship  of  a  God. 

This  is  the  friendship  most  I  prize, 

The   friendship   most   I    love; 
This  friendship  let  me  taste  below, 

And  feast  upon  above. 


[85] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Tongue  Wounds 


Why  allow  we  faults  of  others 

Us  so  much  to  occupy? 
If  men  are  or  should  be  brothers, 

Then  why  break  the  sacred  tie? 

That  should  to  each  other  bind  us, 
Severed  by  the  tongue  too  oft; 

God  hath  other  work  assigned  us 
Than  being  characters  Calcroft. 

Though  in  sentiment  we  differ, 
Why  on  that  account  should  we 

Insult  to   our   brother   offer, 
Who   than   us   may   better  be? 

And  though  in  a  fault  o'ertaken, 
Who  is  faultless  God's  sight  in? 

This   should  charity  awaken, 
Love   the  person,  hate  the   sin. 

On  the  faults  of  good  men  dwelling 
When  we  are  convinced  of  those, 

That  ourselves  they  are  excelling, 
No   good   disposition   shows. 

And  e'en  worse  to  be  upbraiding 
For  faults,  as  if  we  had  none, 

Is  in  merchandise  a  trading 
Better  to  be  let  alone. 

O'er  the  faults  of  others  canting, 
Whether  they  be  saints  or  no, 

Proves  that  we  are  sadly  wanting 
In  the  good  we  fain  would  show. 

On  the  fire  of  heaped  faggots 
Thereby  it  is  but  increased; 

Putrid  flesh  is  food  for  maggots, 
Let  us  not  display  their  taste. 

To  be  feeding  on  defection  — 
Everywhere  it  can  be  found  — 

Many  in  the  wrong  direction 
Make  their  labor  to  abound. 

[86] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Satan  sin  to  be  reproving 

Is  an  inconsistency; 
Evils  would  we  be  removing, 

Still  consistent  let  us  be. 

Those  who  others  would  be  winning 
From  the  dangerous  paths  of  sin, 

And  think  they'll  do  so  by  sinning, 
With  themselves  need  to  begin. 

Doing  evil,   good   pretending, 

Is  to  play  a  double  game; 
Causes   opposite  defending 

Is  a  somewhat  novel  scheme. 

Those  who  make  a  good  profession, 

Should   an   evil   practice   shun; 
But  I  see  into  digression 

I  would  unintending  run. 

Tongue  wounds  I  had  purposed  singing, 

Rather   an   unpleasant   song; 
But  the  evils  therefrom  springing, 

Oft  hath  been  my  thoughts  among. 

And  though  little  good  to  others 

May  arise  from  what  I  say, 
When  aught  my  poor  spirit  bothers, 

I  would  like  to  sing't  away. 

Well,  of  tongue  wounds  first  comes  slander, 

And  I  think  the  worst  it  is; 
This   is    Satan's    salamander, 

Worthy,  too,  of  being  his. 

Like  the  devil  in  each  feature, 

His  work  done  it  loves  to  see; 
Oh!  when  shall  this  hell-hatched  creature 

In  our  world  cease  to  be? 

Like  an  epidemic  sweeping, 

Gossip  through  the  country  goes; 

Still  in  circulation  keeping 

All  and  more  than  all  it  knows. 

Nor  has  these,  almost  unheeded, 
Been  alone  allowed  to  pass; 

[87] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Other  tongue  wounds  unremedied 
We  have  also  had,  alas! 

Some  not  for  discussion  gifted, 
But  thereto  somehow  inclined; 

By  fair  argument  when  sifted 
Things  that  make  for  peace  don't  mind. 

Facts  take  liberty  to  mention, 

And    immediately   you'll   see 
That   their   object  is   contention, 

Reasoned  with  they  cannot  be. 

And  less  can't  be  than  delusion, 
For  to  think  good  will  be  done; 

When  our  language  is  abusive, 
Who  such  lecturers  won't  shun? 

For  their  lecture's  oft  divested 

Both  of  charity  and  truth, 
And  deserves  to  be  detected 

As  it  is  for  want  of  ruth. 

They  for  peace  who  are  not  aiming, 
May  themselves  good  Christians  call; 

But  saints  are  they  worth  a  naming 
For  contention's  sake  who  brawl. 

Of  saintship  no  proof  is  scolding, 
Though  it  practiced  is  by  some; 

Who  are  saints  except  the  moulding? 
Good  for  such  they  had  been  dumb. 

Angry  words  those  bitter  potions 

Many   so    profusely   give, 
Smell  strong  of  mistaken  notions; 

Few  can  with  such  treatment  live. 

Probing  wounds  is  less  a  pleasure 

Than  a   duty,  and  if  so, 
What  is  right  should  be  the  measure 

Than  which  none  should  farther  go. 

If   it's   cruel   to   be  heaping 
Torture  patients  needless  on, 

'Tis  as  cruel  to  be  keeping 

Kindness  from  the  woe  begone. 

[88] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

In  the  tongue  the  law  of  kindness 

Can  no  loss  to  Christians  be; 
Harsh  words  still  betoken  blindness 

To  the  faults  we  ought  to  see. 

If   our   tongues   we   were   employing 

For  our  Maker  as  we  should, 
Fewer  we  would  be  annoying 

And   more   benefit  we   would. 

Abusive   language   may  be   borne 

Patiently   in   some   degree, 
Though  what  by  the  tongue  is  torn 

Rarely  ever  healed  can  be. 

Our  own  faults  to  be  defending 

Bids  defiance  to  reform; 
We're  to  calmness  but  pretending, 

While  we  agitate  the  storm. 

For  their  faults  why  censure  others, 
When  our  own  we  should  deplore; 

If  men  are  or  should  be  brothers, 
Let  us  hostile  be  no  more. 


Nathan's  Parable,  or  Grace  is  Grace 

The  prophet  Nathan  to  rebuke 

King  David  once  was  sent, 
So  he  from  God  the  message  took 

And  off  to   David  went, 

Whose  conscience  sound  asleep  had  fell, 

Nor  had  to  wake  a  thought, 
Till    Nathan   by   a   parable 

Home  his  transgression  brought. 

The   parable   affecting  was, 

And  well  the  case  did  meet; 
For  when  God's  Hand  the  pencil  draws 

The  portrait  is  complete. 

But  David  did  not  take  the  hint 

The   parable   conveyed; 
He   looked   at  it,  but  looked   asquint, 

And  so  wrong  judgment  made. 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


For  never  did  the  king  suspect 

It  was  a  mirror  true 
Which  his  own  likeness  did  reflect, 

Had   conscience   got   a  view. 

Exactly  it  to  him  applied, 

Although   he   did   not   know, 
For  sin  makes  conscience  heavy  eyed 

And  stupid  makes  it  grow. 

Therefore  it  sleeping  was  meantime, 

And  so  he  felt  secure; 
Though  he  had  added  crime  to  crime, 

Still  God  His  Work  makes  sure. 

Yes,  God  makes  sure  His  Work  of  Grace, 

For  thereto   pledged   is  he, 
And  hence  the  king  brought  face  to  face 

Must  law  and  conscience  see. 

When  Nathan  said,  "Thou  art  the  man!" 
This  brought  conviction  strong; 

Conscience  immediately  began 
To  say  he  had  done  wrong. 

Thus,  by  conviction  weakened,  he 

Himself    in   error   sees; 
God's  law  against  us  set  to   see 

Makes  conscience  ill  at  ease. 

David's  had  been  a  blameless  life, 

But  now  it  was  too  plain 
He  taken  had  Uriah's  wife, 

And   good   Uriah   slain. 

And  now  at  conscience  bar  he  stood 

From  which  he  could  not  fly, 
And  then  as  Justice  have  it  would 

He  sentenced  was  to  die. 

And  died  he  would  had  God's  rich  grace 

Not   for  him  interfered; 
But  for  repentance  he  found  place 

And  pardon  was  declared. 

The  prophet  said,  "Thou  shalt  not  die," 
And  if  from  death  rescued, 

[90] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

O  how  would  David  glorify 
The  grace  which  him  renewed? 

Grace,  more  conspicuous,  was  the  more, 

It  him  forgiven  had; 
Of  grace  he  never  had  before 

Such  reason  to  be  glad. 

If  after  God's  own  heart  the  man 

He  was,  what  made  him  so? 
Grace  only  which  make  holy  can, 

I'm    sure    himself    thought    so. 

Whatever  in  this  life  he  was, 

Whatever  fit  to  do 
For  God,  grace  was  alone  the  cause, 

For  grace  did  him  pursue. 

And  he  indebted  is  to  grace, 

As  are  believers  all, 
And  not  to  what  some  nowadays 

Would   doubtless   merit  call. 

That  he,  the  king,  in  beauty  sees 

And   doth   that  land   behold, 
Which  human  merit  some  degrees, 

Doth  lie  beyond  the  gold. 

Of   worldings   neither    purchase    can 

Inheritance  so  fair; 
Grace  must  be  all  things  to  the  man 

That  would  inherit  there. 

Grace  must  not  only  him  create 

In  Jesus  Christ  anew, 
But  from  him  must  not  separate 

Life's   trying  journey  through. 

Was   grace   communicated  but 

To   us  when  we  believe 
That  out  of  bliss  ourselves  we'd  shut, 

As  fact  we  might  receive. 

For  just  as  sure  as  we  would  get 

It  in  our  keeping  placed, 
So  sure  as  by  temptation  met 

Our  stock  of  grace  we'd  waste. 

[91] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

And  they,  this  fact  who  doubt,  must  be 

But    very    ill    acquaint 
With  their  own  heart,  when  they  can't  see 

Its  grace  that  keeps  the  saint. 

To  keep  than  make  a  saint  less  power 

It  takes  might  be  supposed, 
If   we   forget   how   every   hour 

To  sin  we  are  exposed. 

If  grace  each  saint  in  glory  made, 
Grace  also  bore  them  through; 

Where  grace  has  the  foundation  laid 
'Twill    lay   the   topstone,    too. 

Yes,  grace  the  topstone  forth  will  bring, 

And   grace,  grace  to  it  cry; 
Of  grace  alone  the  saint  can  sing, 

On  grace  alone   rely. 

It  saying  is  to  sinners  now, 

Whatever  they  have  been, 
If  grace  to  save  them  they'll  allow 

From  sin  they'll  be  washed  clean. 

Conviction  brings  them  to  the  cross, 

And    there    they    will    abide, 
Where  piece  by  piece  their  purged  from  dross, 

As   they   are   sanctified. 

None  with  perfection  is  acquaint 
Till  life  hath  reached  its  close; 

The  history  of  each  Bible  saint 
Some   imperfection   shows. 

From  which  a  lesson  take  we  should 

How  prone  to  sin  are  we, 
And  that  in  us  if  any  good, 

Our  own  it  cannot  be. 

Both  caution   and  encouragement 

God's  Spirit  holds  out  here; 
Caution  that  sin  we  may  prevent, 

And   so   keep   conscience   clear. 

Encouragement  when  slips  are  made, 
To  keep  despair  away; 

[92] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


For  God  His  Grace  hath  not  displayed 
Repentance   to   delay. 

But  no  encouragement  to  sin 
In  God's  Word  can  be  found; 

Continue  shall  dare  we  therein 
That  grace  may  more  abound. 

If  we  would  to  election  trace, 

Our  calling  we  would  see, 
That  sin  is  sin  and  grace  is  grace, 

And  we  should  holy  be. 

A  holy  life  is  an  effect 

Of  grace,  and  therefore  should 
Be  taken  as  a  proof  direct 

That  God  alone  is  good; 

And  that  He   goodness  doth  impart 
Where  no  good  was  before, 

For  since  the  fall  the  human  heart 
To  God  no  likeness  bore. 

And  what  God's  image  shall  replace, 

Where    sin    has    it   erased, 
Nothing  can  it  restore  but  grace, 

And  therefore  grace  be  praised. 

If  grace  its  subject  could  desert, 
It  would  not  matter  much 

Whether  at  all  it  would  convert 
The  human  heart  is  such. 

It  would  into  arrears  run, 

And   soon  a  bankrupt  be; 
But  grace  works  where  it  hath  begun, 

Though  how  we  cannot  see. 

We  can  believe  a  tree  does  thrive, 
Though  we  can't  see  its  root; 

We  certain  are  it  is  alive 
When  we  behold  its  fruit. 

Just  so  with  grace  we  can't  perceive 
How  it  works  in  the  heart; 

But  there,   once   centered,  we   believe 
It  never  will  depart 


[93] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Until  that  heart  be  purified 
Of   sin   from   every   trace; 

However  it   may  be  denied, 
A  perfect  work  makes  grace. 

None  with  this  doctrine  would  agree 
Who  grace,  as  grace,  despise; 

But  grace  is  grace  however  we 
Would  have  it  otherwise. 


"Lord,  Remember  Me" 

Lord,  look  upon  me  in  my  present  grief, 
And  to  my  mourning  spirit  send  relief; 
The  source  of  this  my  trouble  Thou  dost 

know, 

And  also  wherefore  Thou  hast  made  it  flow. 
I  neither  sought  for,  saw,  nor  can  prevent 
This  bitterness  which  breeds  me  discontent; 
But  Lord,  by  Thee  it  cannot  be  unseen, 
Nor  without  Thy  permission  could  have  been. 
In  trouble  Thou  hast  bid  us  call  on  Thee, 
And  my  soul's  cry  is,  "Lord,  remember  me." 
Recall  this  sorrow  and  give  joy  instead; 
Why  should  my  soul  about  with  grief  be  led? 
A  cause  there  is  no  doubt  if  I  it  knew, 
But  my  God  sees  and  can  remove  it,  too. 
And  while  I  wish  to  have  my  grief  removed, 
I  also  want  to  have  it  well  improved; 
The  better  for  it  I  would  like  to  be, 
And  therefore  pray  still,  "Lord,  remember  me." 


Birthdays  Reckoned 

Of  your  birthdays,  dearest  brother, 
You  the  number  have  kept  well; 

But  that  you  shall  see  another, 
Surely  none  of  us  can  tell. 

What  another  year  bring  us 
May,  at  present  we  can't  see; 

It  for  aught  we  know  may  fling  us 
Where  no  birthdays  meet  shall  we. 

[94] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Time  is  far  from  standing  steady, 

To  eternity  it  rolls; 
Onward,   brother,   are   we   ready 

If  required  were   our  souls? 

Yes,  if  now  through  death's  cold  river 
We  were  called  to  go  and  give 

Up   our  souls  unto  the   Giver, 

Could  they  in  God's  presence  live? 

Surely  it  is  worth  our  knowing 
Brother,   what   we    really   are; 

Whether  we  in  grace  are  growing 
Or  from   God  are   keeping  far. 

Let  us  ask,  and  ask  believing, 
That  in  Christ  we  found  may  be; 

Then  we  can  think  without  grieving 
On  death  and  eternity. 


On  Murmuring 

If  the  breath  that's  in  complaining 

Was  in  praying  to  be  spent, 
We  would  very  much  be  gaining, 

Though  it  were  but  in  content. 

What  so  devil  like  and  daring 

As  to  murmur,  day  by  day, 
Practically  still   declaring 

God  we  limit  to  our  way. 

Yet  we're   Christ's,  Christ's  by  profession, 

Which  is  little  after  all, 
If  in  Christ  we've  no  possession, 

Truly  is  our  portion  small. 

Grace  if  in  pur  hearts  is  growing, 

When  a  time  of  trials  come, 
What  it  is  it  will  be  showing  — 

Grace  is  neither  deaf  nor  dumb. 


[95] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


A  Birthday  Gift 

This  day  another  year  completes 
Of  thy  short  measured  life; 

How  swift  the  time  of  childhood  flies, 
Unknown   to    care   or   strife. 

Oh,  what  shall  I  compare  thee  to, 
Thou  happy  time   of  youth? 

Methinks  thou'rt  like  a  pleasant  stream 
Whose  water  runneth  smooth. 

A  few  more  windings  and  the  stream 

In  ocean  disappears; 
So  childhood  joys  must  all  be  lost 

In  cares  of  riper  years. 

The  world  besets  on  every  side 

With  its  alluring  art, 
To  try  if  flattery  will  gain 

The  unexperienced  heart. 

Therefore,  my  friend,  to  shun  the  snares 

That  may  be  set  for  you, 
Forsake  the  broad  and  dangerous  way 

Which   myriads   doth   pursue. 

Though  sin  may  best  our  nature  suit, 

Our  better  part  it   stings; 
With  steadfast  heart  cleave  thou  to  that 

Which  peace  of  conscience  brings. 

In  all  thy  dealings  be  thou  just; 

Take  thou  the   golden  rule 
To  be  thy  guide,  and  for  thy  pains 

'Twill  pay   thee   to   the   full. 

And  if  by  early  death  your  soul 

The   mandate  must  obey, 
That  separates  it  for  awhile 

From    this    its    mortal    clay. 

I  hope  through  faith  you  will  look  forth 

To  that  most  blessed  hour, 
When  soul  and  body  shall  unite 

Immortal   by   God's   power. 

[96] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


But  if  it  please  the  Lord  to  spare 

Your  life  a  little  yet, 
I  hope  to  serve  Him  with  your  might 

Yourself  you'll  surely  set, 

And  that  a  holy  Christian  life 

Shall   be   by   you   professed; 
The  world  plainly  then  shall  know 

On  whom  your  hope  doth  rest. 

In  course  of  time  if  you  think  fit 

To  change  your  single  life, 
Be  very  careful  who  you  choose, 

Lest  you  should  live  in  strife. 

A   gaudy,  flaunting,   dressy   dame 
Your  substance  soon  would  waste; 

No  care,  no  cost,  nor  pains  she'd  spare 
To    gratify    her    taste. 

A  brawling  woman  also   is 

A  curse  where'er  she  dwells; 
The  petty  ills  of  nuptial  life 

To  mountain  height  she  swells. 

An  idle  slattern,  she  would  be 

A  burden  to  your  life; 
For  sure  it  must  be  grievous 

To   have  a   slothful  wife. 

But  if  you  find  a  prudent  fair, 

That's  faithful,  kind  and  true, 
This  one,  I  think,  of  all  her  sex 

Most  fitting  is  for  you. 

Her  temper,  modest,  mild  and  meek, 
Disturbance  would  keep  down; 

Her  frugal  and  industrious  hand 
Domestic  joys  would  crown. 

Though  ills  should  come,  as  none's  exempt 

From  more  or  less  of  care, 
With  equal  love  to  you  she'll  both 

Your  joys  and  sorrows  share. 

When  such  an  one  I'll  see  your  own, 
My  heart  right  glad  shall  be; 

[97] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


For  worldly  wealth  can  never  vie 
With   such   excellency. 

And  on  your  part  a  husband  be, 

Affectionate   and   kind, 
And  then  you'll  in  each  other  still 

A  worthy  partner  find. 

I  hope  a  happy  group  shall  be 

Around  your   pleasant   hearth; 
Lead  thou  their  youthful  souls  to  God, 

Lest  they  should  cling  to  earth. 

And  so  in  your  declining  years 

Your  comfort  they  shall  be, 
And  when  you're  dead  they'll  blessings  prove 

To    their   posterity. 

Perhaps  you'll  think  a  show  of  words 

Is  all  these  lines  contain; 
If  that  be  so  I  must  confess 

I've  used  my  pen  in  vain. 

Believe  me,  Sir,  I  only  meant  — 

I'm  sure  I  can  say  so  — 
To  guide  with  truth  the  arrow  bright 

That  flies  from  friendship's  bow. 

But  now  I  must  conclude  my  rhyme, 

Lest  I  too  tedious  be, 
And  beg  forgiveness  for  my  fault 

If  I  have  made  too  free. 

I  hope  to  meet  both  you  and  yours 
Where  saints  in  love  doth  dwell, 

Beyond  the  reach  of  care  and  pain; 
Meantime,  my  friend,  farewell! 


To  a  Friend 

To  you  some  lines  allow  me  to  address, 

My  thanks  unfained  to  give  you  with  a  view, 

Nor   can   my   words    the    gratitude   express 
I  owe,  my  much  respected  friend,  to  you. 

You  stood,  my  friend,  when  I  had  almost  none, 
Which    more    acceptable    your    friendship    made; 

[93] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


A  noble  delicacy  was  the  tone 

With   which  your   friendship   ever   was   conveyed. 

I  thank  you  for  the  trouble  you  have  had 
With  me,  and  also  for  the  care  you  took 

Of  me  when  I  was  lone,  grief  crushed  and  sad, 
For  every  sympathizing  word  and  look. 

I  thank  you,  yes,  my  friend,  and  ever  shall, 

For  friendship  undeserved  you've   shown  to   me; 

Nor  do  I  mean  to  flatter  you  at  all, 

No,  not  I'm  certain,  in  the  least  degree. 

Such  kindness  in  a  stranger  scarcely  I 
Could  have  expected  as  in  you  I  found; 

May  God,  my  God,  whose  goodness  runs  not  dry, 
His  mercies  make  toward  you  to  abound. 

A  sympathizing  spirit  is  a  gift 

Which  God  was  pleased  upon  you  to  bestow, 
And  He  shall  by  and  by  to  Glory  lift 

Those  that  do  rightly  "feel  another's  woe." 

A  summer  friend  I  have  not  reckoned  thee, 

And  hence  thy  friendship  I  have  much  esteemed; 

While  memory  serves  'twill  not  forgotten  be, 
So  much  a  Godsend  unto  me  it  seemed. 

Yet  friendship  here  is  subject  to  decay, 
By  reason  of  death  it  cannot  endure; 

But  Jesus  Christ's  is  just  the  same  today 
As  yesterday,  and  is  forever  sure. 

The  unchanged  and  unchangeable  is  He, 
A  term  which  can  alone  to  God  belong; 

And  that  He  is  unchangeable  should  be 
More  than  it  is  the  subject  of  our  song. 

Whatever  trials  we  are  called  to  meet, 

Though  to  be  borne  grievous  they  may  prove, 

And  though  unto  our  palates  nowise  sweet, 
If  we  are  God's,  are  tokens  but  of  love. 

What  He  does  now,  though  we  can't  fully  know, 
The  promise  runs  that  we  hereafter  shall; 

Why  He  deals  thus  or  thus  with  us  below 
We'll  to  our  satisfaction  know  it  all. 

[99] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


At  present  this  to  know  should  us  suffice: 
That  all  things  shall  together  work  our  good; 

And  herein  for  faith  is  exercise, 

Our  love  to  God  being  also  understood. 

We  often  stumble  at  we  know  not  what; 

A  shadow  thrown  across  our  path  will  mar 
Our  peace  of  mind,  and  we  will  baulk  at  that 

As  if  to  guide  there  was  no  morning  star. 

A  full  share  of  the  good  things  of  this  life 
To  have  in  our  possession,  doth  not  prove 

That  God  with  us  hath  ceased  to  be  at  strife, 
And  that  we  are  the  objects  of  His  Love. 

Ah  no!  the  quite  contrary  oft  it  proves, 

As  from  His  Word  and  Providence  appears; 

Therefore    when    temporal    mercies    He    removes, 
Let's  seek  more  earnest  that  which  time  outwears, 

That  is,  an  interest  in  Christ's  dying  love, 
The  love  which  He  for  all  His  elect  bore; 

Anxiety  from  us  it  should  remove 

To  think  that  He's  alive  forever  more. 

And  that  He  lives  for  us  to  intercede, 
Should  be  a  matter  of  our  daily  praise; 

A  hopeless  case  He  never  yet  did  plead, 
For  Him  the  Father  heareth  always. 

We  need  not  overcharge  our  hearts  with  grief, 
No  nor  with  useless  tears  our  eyes  bedim; 

For  all  our  sorrows  there's  but  one  relief, 
And  that's  a  throwing  of  ourselves  on  Him 

Who  cares  for  us,  and  well  that  care  hath  shown, 
Even  when  His  Providence  seemed  most  severe; 

'Tis  love  that  makes  Him  to  chastise  His  own, 
However  otherwise  it  may  appear. 

O  how  the  stripes  infinite  love  doth  deal 
Should  we  with  resignation  calm  receive, 

Believing  He  that  wounds  can  also  heal, 
Else  to  what  purpose  in  a  God  believe. 

We  are  to  walk  by  faith  and  not  by  sight, 

Then  true  faith  in  the  heart  can't  dormant  lie; 

[  100  ] 


CLOUDS      AND       S^tf   JSf-3   H   1* 


Faith  to  have  exercised  is  what  keeps  it  bright, 
And  sure  as  God  gives  faith  that  faith  He'll  try. 

Our  voyage  upon  life's  sea  can  be  but  short  — 
A  span  brings  from  the  cradle  to  the  grave; 

Yet  in  that  span  how  tried,  oft  made  the  sport, 
Or  like  to  be  of  every  wind  and  wave. 

If  life's  a  state  of  trial,  not  reward, 
Then  we  are  but  probationers  while  here; 

We  may  be  tempted  to  think  our  lot  is  hard 

When   through    successive    storms    compelled   to 
steer. 

But  no,  my  friend,  our  lot  would  harder  be 
If  weather  to  our  wishes  still  we  met; 

What  is  more  likely  than  still  with  calm  sea 
We'd  what  we  are,  and  whither  bound,  forget. 

It  gratitude  in  our  hearts  should  awake, 

If  God  to  us  e'en  in  affliction  came, 
Our  harp  then  from  the  willow  let  us  take 

That  we  may  sing  with  joy  unto  His  Name. 

For  what  are  life's  joys,  e'en  when  they  abound, 
Weighed  in  the  balance  with  eternal  things; 

To  want  more  than  they  have  they  shall  be  found 
To  try  them  thus  each  to  their  value  brings. 

Time's  things  when  with  eternity's  compared 

Than  nothing  in  reality  are  less; 
Not  for  a  moment  worth  that  soul's  regard 

Which  grace  convinced  hath  of  their  nothingness. 

My  friend,  that  you  have  chose  the  better  part, 

Glad,  very  glad,  I  am  indeed  to  see, 
Than  that  this  world  occupies  your  heart, 

I  am  persuaded  better  things  of  thee. 

For  thou  the  one  thing  needful  most  dost  prize, 
Else  I  in  thee  have  much  mistaken  been; 

Thou  art   above  assuming  the   disguise 

With  which   the   hypocrite   himself   doth   screen. 

Lest  on  your  time  and  patience  I  intrude, 
If  that  I  may  not  have  already  done, 

These  would-be  friendly  lines  I  will  conclude, 
And  hope  my  purpose  I  have  not  outrun. 

[10!] 


C   L   O   U   D-S    -A-N   D       SUNSHINE 

Which  was,  though  I  confess,  but  ill  expressed, 
My  thanks,  yes  most  unfeigned,  to  give  to  you; 

Wishing  you  present  joy  and  future  rest, 

Your  much  indebted  friend  would  say,  Adieu. 

On  the  Death  of  Sister  C. 

What  has  your  blest  experience  been, 
Dear  sister,  since  you  left  us  here? 

What  glorious  objects  have  you  seen, 
What  holy  sounds  have  filled  your  ear? 

The   turmoils   of  this  present  life 
No  more  your  spirit  can  annoy; 

Forever   finished   is   the   strife, 

And  you  have  entered  on  your  joy. 

The  battle's  fought,  the  victory  won, 
And  you  for  Heaven  are  made  meet; 

In  grace  your  glory  was  begun, 
In  glory  is  your  grace  complete. 

You  would  not  change  positions  now 
With  any  you  have  left  behind; 

The  glory  which  bedecks  your  brow 
Is   something  not   to   be   resigned. 

A  great  deliverance  you  did  gain 
When  you  mortality  laid  down; 

And  we  from  weeping  should  refrain, 
Because  yours  is  a  glorious  crown. 

A  stormy  passage  you  have  had, 
But  now  you'll  put  no  more  to  sea, 

And  should  my  heart  indeed  be  sad 
Because    your   happy   spirit's   free? 

You  longed  for  home,  and  now  you  have 
I'm  certain  entered  on  your  rest; 

Your  body's  in  the  peaceful  grave, 
Your  spirit's  safe  among  the  blessed. 

Departed  sister,  we  believe 

Unfading  pleasures  to  be  yours, 

Because  faith  Jesus  did  receive, 
And  that  eternal  joy  secures. 

[  102  ] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Your  seat  is  empty  one  is  not, 
And  doubtless  we  the  absent  miss, 

But  you  the  start  of  us  have  got 
In  being  taken  home  to  bliss. 

Instead  of  grieving  that  you're  gone 
The  way  of  all  the  earth,  we  should 

Be  thankful  you  a  rest  have  won 
To  which  you  have  a  title  good. 

Of  being  in  a  gracious  state, 

Abundant   evidence   you   gave; 
In  God  your  confidence  was  great, 

And  in   His   Strength  you  death  did  brave. 

Now  you  are  gone,  forever  gone, 
Sweet  sister,  and  I  miss  you  much; 

But  my  end,  too,  is  drawing  on, 
And  as  yours  was,  may  it  be  such. 

Your  meek  submission  to  God's  Will, 
Subjected  though  to  suffering  great, 

Was  wonderful,  and  I  should  still 
Your  patience  strive  to  imitate. 

But  as  it  was  God's  Grace  which  gave 

You   resignation  to   your   lot, 
Grace  of  Him  I  would  also  crave, 

That  I  at  mine  may  murmur  not. 

A  bruised  reed  He  will  not  break, 
Nor  quench  the  smoking  flax  if  so, 

Then  surely  I  should  courage  take 
And  myself  on  His  Mercy  throw. 

My  illness  hath  continued  long, 

Yours  was  but  short  with  it  compared; 

Last  of  November  found  you  strong, 
And  first  of  June  your  death  declared. 

For  every  month  you  ailed  a  year 
I  reckon  can,  and  something  more; 

But  then  your  illness  was  severe, 
And  I  still  linger  as  before. 

Of   God,   mysterious   are   the   ways: 
You  taken  are,  and  I  am  left; 

[  103] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


But  God  I  still  have  cause  to  praise, 
Though  I  of  you  have  been  bereft. 

For  I  shall  never,  never  see 

Your  heart  again  with  sorrow  wrung; 
Dear  Catharine  now  no  more  shall  be 

Your  harp  upon  the  willow  hung. 

And  sometimes  when  I'd  lift  my  voice 
To  weep  that  you're  no  longer  here, 

Constrained  I'm  rather  to  rejoice 
That  now  your  sky  is  always  clear. 

Here  clouds  return  after  rain, 

But  where  you  are  all's  bright  and  fair; 
O  what  a  happy  home  to  gain, 

O  when  shall  I  be  also  there! 

Farewell,  dear  sister,  till  we  meet 

In  glory  as  I  promised  you; 
To  live  in  glory  must  be  sweet, 

Where  none  shall  ever  say,  Adieu! 


The  Primrose 

When  meditating  on  the  human  heart 
Some  years  ago,   I  do  remember  well 

This  gloomy  thought  up  in  my  mind  did  start, 
That   nothing   there   from   sin    could   scarce 
expel. 

A  shadow  had  across  my  mind  been  thrown 
By  meditating  on  the  bulk  of  sin, 

Which  was  in  Eden  by  the  serpent  sown, 
And  unregenerate  hearts  still  grows  within. 

But  in  my  meditation  I  forgot 

That   God  is  fit  sin  always  to  subdue 

E'en  in  the  heart  it  deepest  root  hath  got, 
And  consequently  hath  the  strongest  grew. 

Yes,  thus  I  say,  my  meditations  ran 
Upon  sin,  how  it  hardeneth  the  heart, 

Forgetful  of  the  never  failing  plan 

Of  Grace  which  willing  makes't  with  sin  to 
part, 

[  104] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


When  my  eye  was  directed  to  a  spot 

On    the    wayside    where    a    sweet    primrose 
grew ; 

Lonesome  it  was,  for  of  its  fellows  not 
One  raised  its  head  to  share  the  sun  or  dew. 

Nor  did  I  wonder  that  it  was  alone, 

I  wondered  more  that  one  at  all  should  there 

From  a  hard  bed  of  broken  stones  have  grown, 
And  unmolested  by  the  thoroughfare. 

So  lovely,  though  so  lonesome,  there  it  grew, 
It  seemed  there  placed  to  catch  the  passing 
eye; 

One  thing  I  know,  it  my  attention  drew 
And  made  me  lift  my  heart  to  God  on  high. 

For  as  I  gazed  upon  that  tender  flower, 

At  once  light  in  upon  my  dark  mind  broke; 

I  thought  that  He  Who  raised  it  by  His  Power 
In  such   a  place,   could   break  sin's  hardest 
yoke 

From  off  the  heart,  and  make  grace  there  to 

grow, 

Though  it  had  been  a  hard  and  barren  soil; 
For  where  God's  pleased  the  seed  of  grace  to 

sow, 
The  devil's  hand  the  same  shall  never  spoil. 

Yea,  when  the  Lord  is  pleased  to  sow  the  seed, 
He'll  make  it  grow  no  matter  how; 

The  devil  and  the  flesh  against  it  plead, 
It  to  destroy  God  will  them  not  allow. 

What  reason  then  have  Christians  to  despond, 
However  tried  sure  God  will  them  protect; 

For  of  the  covenant  they're  in  the  bond, 
And    hence    to    save    them    God    will    not 
neglect. 

And  as  the  dew  fell  nightly  on  that  flower, 
It  to  refresh,  so  shall  God's  spirit,  top, 

Fall  on  this  heart  with   calm  though  mighty 

power, 
Time  after  time  grace  therein  to  renew. 


[105] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


And   now,    Primrose,   farewell!   for   while   I'm 

here 

Thee  I  may  not  be  privileged  more  to  see; 
Yet  cease   not  thou   those  who   thee   pass  to 

cheer  — 
Give  joy  to  them  as  thou  once  gave  to  me. 

But  though  no  longer  now  I  can  behold 
Thy  form,  sweet  Primrose,  on  the  highway 
side, 

The   heart-reviving   story   thou'st   me   told 
Shall  long  upon  my  memory  abide. 

And  when  I  think  on  thee,  may  I,  too,  think 
On  Him  who  suffered  death  upon  the  tree, 

That  I  might  life  at  its  pure  fountain  drink, 
Yea,  even  such  life  as  shall  unending  be. 

Where  in  its  native  loveliness  I'll  view 

The  Rose  of  Sharon,  a  most  pleasant  sight; 

Yea,  and  the  lily  of  the  valley,  too, 

Which    shall    me    give    unspeakable    delight. 


The  Communion 

Lord,  grief  to  me  Thou  given  hast, 
Communions  seven  now  are  past 
Since  I've  been  in  the  furnace  cast, 

Of   grievous  affliction; 
Yes,  I  on  each  communion  day 
Was  forced,  alas!  at  home  to  stay; 
But  sure  of  Providence,  the  way 

Admits   no   contradiction. 
Would    we   teach    Him    Who    all    things    well 

doth   still, 
And  pull  down  Providence  to  set  up  will? 

Like  ocean  billows  we  may  toss 
Ourselves   in  vain  attempts  to  cross 
The  lines  God  sets  us,  why  then  lose 

Our  time  thus  in  vain  striving? 
God  sends  us  what  He  sees  most  fit, 
To  which  we  ever  should  submit; 
When  the  saints'  strength  is  still  to  sit, 

Say,  should  they  be  contriving 

[106] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


To   run?    Nay,   they  should  wait   the   will   of 

God, 
And  as  the  sceptre  welcome  make  the  rod. 

What  God  sees  best  He  gives  to  me, 
With  which  I  should  content  still  be, 
And  I  do  hope  content  that  He 

Hath  made  me  in   some   measure. 
Sure  parents  never  should  neglect 
At  right  times  children  to  correct, 
Yet  good  of  it  can  they  expect 

When  it  is  for  their  pleasure? 
But    God    our   profit    ever    keeps    in    view, 
When  by  correction  He  would  us  subdue. 

Sometimes,  myself  sore  tried,  I  think, 
Then  faith  and  patience  almost  sink, 
Which  doth  me  bring  well  nigh  the  brink 

Of  ruinous  despairing; 
But  when  the  enemy  comes  in, 
Lord,  like  a  flood  to  tempt  to  sin, 
A  standard  raise  Thou  me  within 

On  Thy  behalf  declaring; 
Yes,  Holy  Spirit,  raise  it  in  my  heart 
And  make  the  enemy  with  loss  depart. 

What  though  communions  now  I  miss, 
If  God  be  pleased  to  grant  me  this, 
That  I  shall  with  the  saints  in  bliss 

My  song  be   ever  singing; 
If  my  name's  written  in  life's  book, 
If  Christ  my  sins  away  hath  took, 
I  shall  not  be  by  Him  forsook; 

There's  joy  for  me  upspringing 
Still  more  and  more,  until  it  perfect  be, 
For  perfect  joy  shall  be  enjoyed  by  me. 

'Tis  true  I  trials  oft  do  meet, 

And  bitter  things,  yet  still  some  sweet 

I  get  at  blessed  Jesus'  feet, 

To    mix    with    bitter    potions; 
But  I've  by  sin  myself  undone, 
That  God  hath  sent  His  only  Son 
Eternal  life  for  me  to  win, 

Is  sure  no  vacant  notion; 
Faith  is  a  substance  proving  things  unseen, 
And  has  reduced  to  nothing  never  been. 

[107] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Although  my  foes  I  ever  find 
To  do  me  evil  much  inclined, 
And  though  against  me  they're  combined, 

And  very  much  annoy  me, 
Christ  sure  hath  conquered  all  the  foes 
That  could  his  followers  oppose, 
And  He  will  surely  bridle  those 

That  they  shall  not  destroy  me ; 
For  certain  there  is  shelter  in  the  Rock 
Of  Ages  for  the  weakest  of  Christ's  flock. 

When  I  compare  my  gold  with  dross 
And  set  my  gain  against  my  loss, 
Yea,  and  my  crown  against  my  cross, 

Though   I   have   trials   often, 
This  surely  lighter  makes  them  seem 
And  gives  me  of  blest  hope  a  gleam; 
E'en   water   of   affliction's   stream, 

Though  hard  it  tends  to  soften, 
It  is  enough  to  make  a  beggar  sing 
Who  prospect  has  of  being  made  a  king. 

For  kings  and  priests  and  nothing  less 
They'll  be  to  God,  who  shall  possess 
Of  Jesus  Christ  the  righteousness; 

O  what  a  blessed  story! 
That  Christ  has  suffered  on  the  tree 
And  crowned  was  with  thorns  for  me, 
That  I  a  crown  should  wearing  be 

Of  life  with  Him  in  glory, 

Which  each  believer  shall  get  from  the  Hand 
Of  Christ,  the  Judge,  and  wear  it  in  that  land 

Where  the  saints'  trials  shall  be  o'er, 
Because  the'll  sinning  be  no  more; 
But  they  shall  still  God's  Face  before 

His  Holy  Name  be  praising; 
Their  joy  shall  never,  never  cease, 
Their's     shall  be  pure  and  lasting  peace 
Which   terminate  won't,  nor  decrease; 

And   O    to   be   still  raising 

With  them  a  song  of  praise  to  God  most  high, 
Where  sad  privations  feel  no  more  shall  I. 


[108] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Hope  Better  Than  Gold 

Oh!   how   unbelief   doth   haunt   me 
When  faith  exercise  should  I, 

Oh!  how  Satan  strives  to  daunt  me 
To  be  patient  when  I  try. 

He  for  man  is  far  too  cunning, 
Sad  experience  this  doth  prove; 

Mankind  to  their  ruin  running 
Is  what  this  arch  fiend  doth  love. 

Then  than  me  he's  surely  stronger, 
And  I   must  give  o'er  the  fight; 

For  I  can  hold  out  no  longer 
If  God  will  not  be  my  might. 

All  for  lost  must  I  give  over, 
And  shall  Satan  gain  the  field? 

Lord  I'm  Thine,  Thine  own  recover, 
'Gainst  his  darts  be  Thou  my  shield. 

Surely  in   time  past   Thou   didst 
Make  me  to  rejoice  in  Thee; 

And  my  sins  sure  Lord  Thou  hid  hast 
In  Christ's  Blood,  that  cleansing  sea. 

I   was  happy   in  believing, 
If  my  heart  I  knew  aright, 

Christ  on   His  own  terms  receiving, 
Christ,  the  hope  of  glory  bright. 

Still  I'm  on  Thy  Grace  depending 
For   my  comforts   every  one; 

Therefore  grace  to  me  be  sending, 
Else  I  am  undone,  undone. 

Can  a  soul  once  knit  to  Jesus 
Ever   from   Him   parted   be? 

Can   sin  which   God   still   displeases 
In  His  own  less  sinful  be? 

A  soul  once  to  Christ  united 

Surely    shall    united    still 
Be,  till  God  His  oath  hath  slighted, 

And   slight   it   He   never  will. 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Sin  in  souls  which  unrenewed  is, 

Though  it  is  a  grievous  sore, 
In  that  which  by  grace  subdued  is, 

Sure  is  grievous  far  more. 

Nor  will  God  in  saints  be  slipping 

Sin,  but  will  it  still  correct, 
For  the  same  a  thorough  whipping 

In  some  way  they  may  expect. 

Sometimes  He  makes  sickness  beat  them, 
Sometimes  conscience  is  the  rod; 

Man  or  Satan  which  doth  hate  them, 
All  to  bring  them  back  to  God. 

And,   Lord,  while   I  am  receiving 
At  Thy  Hands,  stroke  after  stroke, 

Let  me  feel  and  be  believing 
That   Thine   is   an  easy  yoke. 

Many  ways  sure  Thou  hast  tried  me, 
Many  times   I've   felt  Thy  rod; 

But  Thou  hast  not  yet  denied  me 
Grace  to  help  me,  O   my  God. 

If   I    ever   be   forsaken 

By  Thee,  Lord,  the  fault  is  mine; 
From  sin's  sleep  let  grace  still  waken 

Me,  and  all  praise  shall  be  Thine. 

Hold  me  still  with  Thy  strong  arm, 

Else  I  shall  fall  down  to  hell; 
Shield  me,  shield,  Lord,  from  harm, 

Then  I  shall  be  safe  and  well. 

Give  me  self  to  know,  which  humble 
Shall  me  keep  beneath  Thy  Hand; 

For  sure  souls  that's  proud  shall  stumble, 
Lord,  when  humble  ones  shall  stand. 

Self  to  know  is  surely  better 
Than  all  knowledge  this  beside, 

And  to  feel  myself  a  debtor 
To  the  love  which  doth  abide. 

Better   is   than   if   possessing 

All  earth's  gold,  though  I  this  could; 

[no] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Life  eternal  is  a  blessing, 
Which  to  gold  prefer  I  would. 

Gold,  what  is  it  when  death  takes  us? 

Life  one  moment  it  can't  give; 
But  grace,  thanks  to  God,  doth  make  us 

Hope   that  we   shall   ever  live. 

Hope  of  which  none  should  ashamed  be, 

For  it   shall   be  realized 
To  those  who  from  death  reclaimed  He, 

Never  more  to  be   despised. 

Then,  my  soul,  in  Him  hope  ever, 

Who  is  worthy  of  all  trust; 
Him  Who   disappoint  shall  never 

Hope  placed  in  Him  by  the  just. 

Hope  through  life  be  thou  abiding 
With  me,  nor  let  death  thee  fright; 

Then  from  me  do  not  be  hiding 
When  almost  is  fought  the  fight. 

For  blest  hope,  where  thou  art  wanting, 

Peace  there  is  in  no  degree; 
Hopeless   souls  are   always   daunting 

In   view  of  eternity. 

Nor  need  this  arouse  our  wonder 
That  then  God  will  such  disown, 

Conscience  shall  speak  loud  as  thunder 
When  such  on  death-beds  be  thrown. 

It  is  hope  which  can  us  cheering 
Be  when  that  hour  draweth  near, 

In  which  we  must  be  appearing 
At  God's  bar  our  doom  to  hear. 

Then  than  gold  hope's  surely  better, 
For  from  earth  it  frees  the  mind, 

When  gold  ofttimes  proves  a  fetter 
Thereto  souls  of  men  to  bind. 

Gold  I  ask  not  which  bewitches, 
Nor  would  worldly  honors  bear, 

But  I   ask  that  which  enriches, 
Hope,  great  contrast  of  despair. 

[ml 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Hope  I  ask  and  no  denial 

Of  it,  Lord,  I'll  take  from  Thee; 

Put  me  as  Thou  wilt  to  trial, 
But  of  hope  deprive  not  me. 

Hope,  O  hope,  thou  gem  most  precious! 

Thy  want  may  I  never  know; 
Hope  in  God,  the  good  and  gracious, 

Who  alone  can  hope  bestow. 

O  my  God,  give  me  my  reason, 

Now  again  I  ask  of  Thee; 
Faith  and  patience  in  their  season 

Let  me   exercising  be. 


A  Visit  from  a  Minister 

This  minister  to  see   me  came  again, 

Though  hither  he  has  scarce  been  fit  to  walk, 

And  I  would  need  to  see  that  not  in  vain 
I  have  been  listening  to  his  holy  talk; 

For  this  kind  visit  I  am  much  a  debtor, 

And  may  I  also  for  it  be  the  better. 

He  told  of  ones  in  midst  of  strength  which  had 
With  little  warning  to  give  up  their  breath; 

Compared  with  theirs  my  case  is  not  so  sad, 
For  I  have  had  long  time  to  think  of  death; 

There  is  no  place  left  me  for  self  excusing 

If  I   God's  visitation  am  misusing. 

It  hath  a  voice,  "Prepare  to  meet  Thy  God," 
Methinks  it  daily  whispers  in  my  ear; 

"Your  body  soon  shall  lie  beneath  the  clod," 
And  surely  these  are  solemn  sounds  to  hear; 

But  to  each  child  of  God  'tis  a  love  token 

When  at  the  cistern  the  wheel  is  broken. 

He  spoke  of  faith  and  one  example  gave; 

Twas  her  who  came  to  Jesus  so  distressed 
That    He    would    heal    her    daughter    she    did 

crave, 

Who  of  a  grievous  devil  was  possessed; 
Her  strength  of  faith  so  pleased  the  Lord  of 

Power 
That  He  her  daughter  healed  that  very  hour. 

[112] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

Oh!  that  like  her  to  Jesus  I  would  go 

And  feel  as  deep  my  own  unworthiness; 
A  dog  He  may  me  call;  well,  be  it  so, 

E'en    dogs    may    come    and    tell    Him    their 

distress; 

For  He  to  feed  the  children  that  is  able 
Won't    grudge    to    dogs    the    crumbs    beneath 
their   table. 

I  would  believe,  but  when  I  would  draw  near 
To  Christ,  how  unbelief  doth  mar  the  way, 

It  says  my  prayers  He  will  not  deign  to  hear; 
But  let  faith  have  a  voice  and  it  will  say  — 

Hush,  unbelief,  thou  worst  of  soul  diseases, 

Thou  shalt  not  thus  block  up  my  way  to  Jesus. 

Jesus,  that  name  is  music  to  my  heart, 

'Tis   sweet  as   ointment  when  poured   forth 

it  is, 
And  may  its  odor  never  more  depart 

From  this  soul  that  would  willingly  be  His; 
And    having    named    Thy    Name,    O    Blessed 

Jesus, 

Let    me    depart    from    that    which    Thee    dis- 
pleases. 

Sweet  patience,  younger  sister  of  true  faith, 
He  very  much  did  recommend  to  me, 

By  telling  of  one  who  pursued  her  path 

Noiseless  through  life  accompanied  by  thee; 

May  I  like  her  when  comes  the  time  of  trial 

Still  by  forbearance  practice  self  denial. 

Long  suffering  and  meekness  surely  are 

With  other  graces  from  the  self  same  root, 

And  though  the  devil  strives  their  growth  to 

mar, 
God  shall  them  cherish  as  His  Spirit's  fruit; 

The  graces  cultivate  in  me  I  pray  Thee, 

O  Lord,  that  from  the  heart  I  may  obey  Thee. 

And  when  I  hear  of  those  whose  fight  is  won, 
Who  hath  outstripped   me  in  the   Christian 
race, 

In  their  footsteps  I  should  the  harder  run 
And  stop  not  till  I,  too,  do  reach  that  place 

[us] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Where   they   through   faith   and   patience    do 

inherit 
The   promises   alone   by   Jesus   merit. 

To  prayer  he  did  exhort,  O  lovely  prayer! 

Our  privilege  thou  as  well  as  duty  art; 
O  that  in  thee  our  souls  less  straitened  were! 

O  that  thou  wert  sent  forth  more  from  the 

heart ! 

And  while  to  prayer  the  Lord  is  us  inviting, 
Prayer  in  us  may  His  Spirit  be  inditing. 

'Tis  very  little  I  can  recollect 

Of  what  he  said,  but  prayer  did  it  include; 
The  prayer  of  faith  God  never  will  reject  — 

It  gladdens  angels,  and  I   also  should 
With  gladness  note  it  in  these  humble  verses 
As  that  which  saddest  thoughts  ofttimes  dis- 
perses. 

Ye  invalids,  whom  weakness  keepeth  far 
From  God's  house,  lift  your  voice  with  me 

to    sing, 
How  beautiful  upon  the  mountains  are 

The    Feet   of    Him   that   doth    good    tidings 

bring, 
Tidings    which    to    God's    suffering    ones    is 

sweeter 
Than  ever  honey  was  unto  the  eater. 

Whoso  the  sufferer's  weary  heart  would  cheer 
With  words  of  truth  and  everlasting  love, 

Are  they  who  really  do  God's  message  hear, 
Which  by  delivering  they  do  plainly  prove; 

May  God  in  life  spare  such  if  for  His  glory, 

That  they  may  long  proclaim  redemption's 
story. 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


God  Cares  for  Me 

I  know  God  cares  for  me,  and  I 
Have  many  proofs  of  this; 

He  sent  His  Son  for  me  to  die, 
And  that  the  greatest  is. 

But  minor  proofs  I  also  have 

Which  from  that  great  proof  flows, 

For  He  Who  sent  His  Son  to  save, 
With  Him  all  good  bestows. 

He  called  me  into  being,  and 

In   helpless   infancy, 
He  me  protected  by  His  Hand, 

And   thus   He   cared   for   me. 

And  through  scenes  of  maturer  years 

He  made  me  for  to  see 
That  He,  Who  helpless  childhood  hears, 

Then  also  cared  for  me. 

Affliction  came,  my  pleasant  things 

No  more  enjoyed  could  be; 
But  still  joy  in  my  heart  upsprings, 

By  this,  God  cares  for  me. 

With  what  my  God  is  pleased  to  send 

May  I  content  still  be, 
And  with  a  hearty  trust  depend 

On   Him   Who   cares  for   me. 

Could  I  but  see  here  in  this  place, 

As  yet  I  hope  to  see, 
On  all  He  sends  my  eye  might  trace 

His  tender  care  for  me. 

Without  a  guard  on  life's  rough  wave 

No  safety  there  can  be; 
Oh!  Guard  of  Guards,  let  me  not  stray 

But  show  Thy  care  for  me. 

O   how  could   I   endure   the   grief 

Sent  unto  me  by  Thee, 
If   I   had   not   a  full  belief 

That  Thou  dost  care  for  me. 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


When  I  death's  valley  come  to  tread, 

This  comfort  let  me  see, 
That  Thou,  Who  hast  through  life  me  led, 

Can't  loose  Thy  care  for  me. 


The  Record 

To  render  thanks  to  God  I  set 

A  special  day  apart; 
His  goodness  lest  I  should  forget, 

A   record  keeps   my  heart. 

But  when  the  day  arrived,  so  dull 
Somehow  my  heart  had  grown, 

That  though  the  register  was  full, 
One  mercy  scarce  'twould  own. 

Thought  I,  this  is  ingratitude, 

That   terrible   disease 
Peculiar  to  north  latitude, 

My  heart's  about  to  freeze. 

For  if  it  were  not  cold,  I  ween, 

It  would  not  be  so  slow 
To  own,  as  it  hath  just  now  been, 

Mercy's  unceasing  flow. 

To   Thee,   blest   Son   of   Righteousness, 
My  cold  heart  closer  draw, 

For  I'm  convinced  that  nothing  less 
Can  its   affections   thaw. 

O  make  it  sensible  of  good, 

That  it  may  ever  be 
Acknowledging  with  gratitude, 

The  grace  bestowed  on  me. 

In  it  so  much  deceit  I  find, 

I  cannot  trust  it  far; 
To  wander  it  is  so  inclined, 

To  guide  was  there  no  star. 

My  every  hope  it  soon  would  strand, 

And  sink  me  in  despair; 
But  I  can  trust  it  in  God's  hand, 

And  I  will  leave  it  there. 

[116] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Life  Religion 

We  much  have  been  hearing  of  orthodox  creeds, 
Uncompromised  principles,  martyrs'  deeds; 
Our  forefathers  suffered  and  bled  on  the  sod, 
And  would  we,  if  tried,  be  so  zealous  for  God? 
We  boast  of  their  actions  and  tell  how  they  stood 
For  us  in  the  tempest,  and  think  ourselves  good; 
But  practice  is  oft  with  profession  at  strife  — 
I  like  the  religion  that  speaks  in  the  life. 

Our  forefathers  suffered  and  sleep  in  the  grave, 
But  He  who  redeemed  them  can  also  us  save; 
Their  lamps  burned  bright,  but  no  oil  they  could 

spare ; 

For  the  Bridegroom's  coming  let  us,  too,  prepare. 
He  come  may  at  midnight,  our  lamps  trimmed  let's 

keep, 

Lest  we  be  the  virgins  who  slumber  and  sleep. 
Let  not  practice  be  with  profession  at  strife, 
I  like  the  religion  that  speaks  in  the  life. 

Our  martyred  forefathers,  peace  be  to  their  name, 
To  keep  a  good  conscience  braved  faggot  and  flame; 
They  welcome  made  death  in  its  most  frightful 

form, 

Theirs  was  a  religion  that  rode  out  the  storm. 
They  gained  for  us  privileges,  this  we  can  tell, 
But  are  we  improving  these  privileges  well? 
If  not,  practice  is  with  profession  at  strife  — 
I  like  the  religion  that  speaks  in  the  life. 

Our  honored  forefathers  I  highly  esteem, 

Whose  religion  reality  was,  and  no  dream. 

The  more  persecuted,  the  firmer  they  grew, 

And  in  face  of  all  dangers  they  proved  themselves 

true. 

A  mere  profession,  though  in  itself  pure, 
Where  practice  is  wanting,  God  cannot  endure. 
With  self-righteous  striving  God's  always  at  strife, 
But  likes  the  religion  that  speaks  in  the  life. 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Grace  Contemplated 

Were  I  to  sing  of  all  the  grace 

God  doth  on  me  bestow, 
From  this  heart  to  the  Giver,  praise 

Unceasingly  would  flow. 

Where  grace  with  song  supplies  the  heart, 

What  tongue   can  silent  be? 
For  tongue  and  heart  have  each  their  part, 

O    God,   in   praising   Thee. 

Hast  Thou  not  said,  "The  dumb  shall  sing?' 

Thy  promise  verify; 
Grace  is  an  overflowing  spring, 

Why  should  my  soul  be  dry? 

The  deeper  it  of  grace  doth  drink, 

The    more   inclined   'twill   be 
Upon  the   mercies,   Lord,  to   think 

Which  Thou  hast  given  me. 

I    never   undervalue   would 

The  mercies  I  receive, 
Which,  even  when  disguised,  are  good 

For  me,  I   do  believe. 

To  God  none  owes  more  thanks  than  me, 

Yet  somehow  I  am  not 
So  thankful  as  I  ought  to  be, 

For   mercies    I    have   got. 

Our  gratitude  may  ebb  and  flow, 

Unthankful   we    may    prove; 
But  never  can   abatement   know 

Our  God's  unchanging  love. 

God's  ways  to  us  mysterious  are, 

Because  but  part  we  see; 
Yet  with  His  purpose  cannot  jar, 

But  keeps  in  harmony. 

His   purpose   in   His    Providence 

We    cannot   always    read, 
But  we  will  walk  by  faith,  not  sense, 

If  we  are  God's  indeed. 

[118] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


To  misinterpret  we're  prone, 

His  gracious  design, 
And  who  dares,  where  He  hath  not  shown, 

His  purpose  to   define? 

Without  a  purpose  He  works  not, 

Though  it  I  may  not  see; 
He's  the  disposer  of  the  lot, 

And  I  content  should  be. 

My  sins  and  griefs  I'll  on  Him  cast, 

That's  able  both  to  bear; 
And  if  I  do,  I'm  sure  at  last 

I'll  glory  with  Him  share. 

This  hope,  well  founded  if  it  is, 

My  sorrows  should  assuage; 
And  make  me  sing  my  God  to  Thee 

Throughout  life's  pilgrimage. 

No  cloud  so  dark  the  saint  can  meet, 

But  one  side  is  still  bright; 
His  bitter's  always  mixed  with  sweet, 

His  sorrows  with  delight. 

I  am  not  much  disposed  to  fret, 

Yet  sometimes  discontent 
I  in  my  pilgrimage  have  met, 

And   almost  with   it  went. 

It  reasoning,  plausible  can  make, 

At  least  to  Nature's  ear; 
But  as  it  truth  doth  seldom  take, 

It  wherefore  should  we  hear. 

Lord  discontent  from  me  remove 

When  I  through  sorrow  wade, 
And  never  let  me  doubt  the  love 

Thou  hast  so  well  displayed. 

For  mercies  past  and  present,  too, 

I'd    glorify    Thy    Name, 
Who  hath  Thy  saints  brought  times  not  few 

Unhurt  through  flood  and  flame. 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Pride 

Some  say  I'm  proud,  it  may  be  so, 

For  pride's  a  subtle  sin; 
But  if  I  am  I  did  not  know, 

Perhaps  it  lurks  within. 

And  if  it  does,  I  have  no  doubt, 

But  it  abroad  hath  been; 
For  if  it's  in,  it  will  be  out, 

And  therefore  must  be  seen. 

Have  I  allowed  my  eyes  to  roam 
Abroad,  while  they  should  be 

Employed  in  serving  God  at  home, 
And  what's  there,  going  see. 

Shall  others'  eyes  my  faults  detect, 
While  they  escape  my  own? 

I  know  some  people  faults  suspect 
Where  even  there  is  none. 

But  of  that  I  make  no  pretext 

To  say  I  have  not  pride; 
If  it  is  true  I  should  be  vexed, 

If   false,   no   one    I'll   chide. 

When  self  I  at  the  cross  resigned, 
Pride  said,  or  seemed  to  say: 

"I  feel  my  breath  so  much  confined, 
I  die  must  or  decay." 

And  if  it  has  revived  again 

And  has  o'er  me  control, 
Lord  by  Thine  own  Hand,  be   it  slain, 

Lest  it  destroy  my  soul. 

But  if  I  have  not  cherished  pride, 
As  some  are  pleased  to  say, 

O  let  an  humble  walk  decide 
That  they  have  been  astray. 

And  if  the  right  they  will  not  see, 
Show  them  Thou'lt  take  my  part, 

And  that  what  they  have  took  to  be 
A  proud's  an  honest  heart. 

[120] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


To  honest  hearts  it  is  quite  plain 

True  dignity  belongs, 
Which  they  will  strive  to  and  maintain 

Amidst  reviling  throngs. 


Trials  Improved 

When  of  sin  we  make  confession, 

Lord  us  hear,  and  forgive; 
Pardon  in  us  all  transgression, 

Make  us  hear  Thee  say,  live. 

'Gainst  us  as  a  nation  burning 

Hath,  our  God,  Thine  anger  been; 

O   in    mercy   be   returning, 
Unto  us  make  to  be  seen. 

Thy  great  power  in  this  season 
That  the  crop  preserved  we'll  see, 

Unbelief  and   human   reason 
Asking    is,    how    can    it    be? 

But  Thy  promise  we'd  be  pleading, 
Which,  Lord,  give  us  faith  to  plead; 

If  Thy  promise  faith  is  feeding, 
Shall  our  bodies  starve  indeed? 

Less  than  life's  the  food  to  nourish, 

It  less  than  the  body,  too; 
Is  the  raiment  it  to  cherish 

Unbelief,  now  what  say  you? 

When   God   speaks,   what   canst  thou   answer, 
Though  so  bold  thou  seem'st  to  be? 

Thou  art  nothing  but  a  cancer 
To  the  soul  that  harbors  thee. 

Food  and  raiment  while  they  need  it, 
God,  His  people,  promised  hath; 

And  our  privilege  is  to  plead  it, 
Lord  we  pray  increase  our  faith. 

That  while   others  are   despairing 

Of  Thy  Truth  and  Mercy,  too, 
We  may  be  indeed  declaring 

That  Thou'lt  to  Thy  word  be  true. 

[121] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


The  Hint 

"I  don't  know  what  to  think  of  you," 
Once  a  friend  to  me  did  say; 

"By  your  works,  if  I  do  prove  you, 
Little   of  the  saint  I   see." 

This  it  seemed  my  friend  had  hinted, 
And  I  thought  it  may  be  so, 

And  in  good  works  if  I'm  stinted, 
It  is  better  I  should  know. 

She,  no  doubt,  had  made  allusion 
To  some  failing  which  she  saw; 

This  at  least  was  the  conclusion 
Which  I  from  her  words  did  draw. 

Hints  should  never  pass  unheeded 
When  from  friendly  lips  they  fall; 

They  are  for  the  most  part  needed, 
And  we  should  improve  them  all. 

Though  indeed,  my  friend  respected, 
May  have  what  she  said  forgot, 

Yet  it  seemed  so  well  directed 
To  the  heart  that  I  have  not. 

For,  I  thought,  if  at  a  distance 
It  can  be  observed  I'm  lame, 

There   is   somewhere   inconsistence, 
And  I  search  will  for  the  same. 

So  I  set  to  by  inspection, 

Heart  and  life  for  to  compare; 

And  I  found  but  imperfection, 
Imperfection  everywhere. 

Sin  so  mars  thought,  word  and  action, 
It  has  rendered  all  impure; 

Yet,  His  Word  forbids   distraction, 
Who  for  sin  proclaimed  a  cure. 

There  is  One  from  sin  Who  frees  us, 
Let  us  trust  His  great  name  in; 

Is  He  not  rightly  called,  Jesus, 
Who  His  people  saves  from  sin? 

[  122  ] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


God    requires    but    believing 
On  His  Son,  life  to  receive; 

And  all  shall  be  life  receiving 
Who  upon  His  Son  believe. 

Therefore,  I  would  gladly  know  him 
As  the  Lord,  my  righteousness; 

All  my  imperfections  throw  Him, 
Who  can  with  forgiveness  bless. 

With  my  friend,  if  she  intended 
By   her   hint   to    better   me, 

I  am  not  the  least  offended, 
But   to   her   obliged  must   be. 


'Not  As  I  Will" 

"Not  as  I  will,  but  as  Thou  wilt," 

Lord,  enable  me  to  say, 
For,  alas!  how  weak  my  faith  grows 

When  Thou  seem'st  from  me  to  stay. 

"Not  as  I  will,  but  as  Thou  wilt," 
Lord,  I  know  is  best  for  me; 

Yet  "as  I  will"  would  be  master 

When  "as  Thou  wilt"  should  that  be. 

"Not  as  I  will,  but  as  Thou  wilt," 

Lord,  enable  me  to  sing; 
For  however  this  appear  may, 

At  the  last  me  good  'twill  bring. 

"Not  as  I  will,  but  as  Thou  wilt," 
Lord,  impress  upon  my  heart; 

For  of  lots  Thou,  the  disposer 
Here  and  hereafter  art. 

"Not  as  I  will,  but  as  Thou  wilt," 

Make   me  practically  say, 
Thereby  others  shall  encouraged 

Be,  my  God's  Will  to  obey. 

"As  Thou  wilt"  of  faith's  the  language, 
This  pure  language,  Lord,  teach  me; 

Than  which  sure  there's  not  a  better, 
"As  Thou  wilt,"  so  let  it  be. 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

"As  Thou  wilt,"  with  my  condition, 
Lord,  make  me  content  in  time, 

When  Thou  wilt  my  spirit  summon 
To  a  better,  purer  clime. 

Remaining  Corruptions 

0  that  I  could  self-will  subdue 
And  meekness  without  fail  pursue  — 

But  when  shall  I  this  see? 
Ah!  how  a  hasty  word  doth  bring 
Unto  my  heart  a  bitter  sting; 

And  how  else  can  it  be? 
For  every  sin  a  wound  leaves  in  my  soul, 
Which  I  am  quite  unable  to  make  whole. 

If  Zeruiah's  sons  too  hard 
The  King  of  Israel  did  regard, 

For  him  as  surely  I 
Have  greater  reason  to  complain, 
Because  I  seem  to  fight  in  vain 

'Gainst  foes,  which  still  doth  lie 
In  wait  to  make  of  me  an  easy  prey, 
And  thus  I  struggle  with  them  day  by  day. 

Ah!  how  deceitful  is  my  heart, 
It  acteth  oft  a  treacherous  part; 

It  is  indeed  a  cage 
Of  birds  unclean,  it  shelters  those 
That  are  in  truth  my  very  foes, 

Which  'gainst  me  war  doth  wage; 
If  to  my  cause  my  heart  would  be  but  true, 

1  other  foes  the  better  would  subdue. 

But  when  I  think  I  have  them  slain, 
Oh,   how   they   do    revive    again! 

And  bolder   seem  to   aim 
At  me  than  they  have  done  before; 
Then,  Oh!  must  I  this  fight  give  o'er? 

Ah!  no,  there  is  a  name, 
The  meaning  whereof  is  to  save  from  sin, 
Through  which  a  glorious  victory  I  may  win. 

Yes,  Lord,  the  battle  is  Thine  own, 
Then  let  me  not  be  overthrown 
For  Thou  my  whole  strength  art, 

[  124] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Thou  Captain  of  Salvation,  Who 
The  fiercest  foe  can  soon  subdue; 

Yea,    e'en    this    rebel    heart 
Shall  be   submissive,  and   shall  fruit  forth 

bring, 
If  grace  be  there  a  never  failing  spring. 

O  God  of  Mercy,  Truth  and  Love, 
While  in  the  furnace  Thou  dost  prove 

Me,  let  me  patient  be; 
As  a  refiner  Thou  dost  sit, 
Then  let  me  willingly  submit 

In  every  case  to  Thee, 
And  by  whatever  means  Thou  seest  best 
Prepare  me  for  Thine   everlasting  rest. 


To  Brother  S. 

Brother  your  kindness  on  me  fell 

I  ike  dew  upon  some  drooping  flower, 

Or  rain  upon  the  heather  bell, 
Restoring  fragrance  in  an  hour. 

The  praise  you  get  on  this  account, 
To  tell  you  I  must  needs  forbear, 

For  that  even  to  a  small  amount, 
I  know  you  never  wished  to  hear. 

Sufnce't   to   say,   I'm   gratified 

In  all  your  changing  that  unchanged 

Your  friendship  is,  though  often  tried, 
Your  love  is  not  the  least  estranged. 

My  health  is  much  the  same  as  when 
You  saw  me  last,  though  me  they  tell 

I'm  not  so  ruddy  just  as  then, 
And  yet  I  think  I  feel  as  well. 
*  *  * 

So  then,  I'm  in  a  straight  'twixt  two  — 
I  know  not  what  to  choose;  of  course 

I  fain  would  try't,  and  if  I  do, 
I  fear  to  change  a  bad  for  worse. 

Of  mendment  then  the  prospect's  dark, 
But  we  must,  hoping  for  the  best, 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Just  go  aboard  of  faith's  strong  barque, 
And  therein  hush  our  fears  to  rest. 

We'll  leave  the  case  with  Him,  to  Whom 
From  death  the  issues  do  belong; 

Though  death  should  early  be  my  doom, 
He  that  doth  all,  doth  nothing  wrong. 

I'm  glad  to  hear  you  do  attend 

Where  Christ's  Name  chiefly  is  made  known ; 
Close  in,  close  in,  with  Him,  dear  friend, 

For  safety  elsewhere  there  is  none. 

Forgive  me,  for  I   see  that  when 
Grim  visaged  death  appears  in  view, 

Naught  but  reality  stands,  then  — 
A  Heaven  or  hell,  how  awful  true. 

This  is  not  meant  alone  for  you, 

My  sentiments  I   freely  tell; 
My  present  prospect  and  the  view 

I  have  of  future  things,   Farewell! 


Thoughts  On  Affliction 

The  birds  sing  sweetly  on  the  tree, 
Then  why  am  I  so  sad? 

But  if  my  heart  was  light  as  theirs, 
'T would  likely  be  as  glad. 

Sin  hath  provoked  my  Father's  ire, 
I  smart  beneath  the  rod; 

And  shall  a  mortal  worm  contend 
With  an  immortal  God? 

The  evil  one  so  racks  my  soul, 
And  brings  my  sin  to  view; 

And  unbelief  is  still  at  hand 
Which  bears  His  record  true. 

He  intimates  that  God  hath  left  me, 
And  no  more  shall  spare 

His  poor  afflicted  servant, 

And  He'll  e'en  shut  out  my  prayer. 

[126] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


And  is  not  this  enough  to  sink 

Into    desponding   fears, 
A  heart  on  whom  the  light  of  truth 

Hath  shined  upon  for  years? 

With  grief  and  sorrow  I  confess, 

Me  it  does  nigh  o'erwhelm; 
But  hold  a  while,  hold  on  my  soul, 

Let  faith  grasp  fast  the  helm. 

On  Christ  the  living  Rock  most  sure, 

That  is  within  the  vale, 
Thine  anchor,  hope,  cast;  this  is  ground 

That  ne'er  was  known  to  fail. 

Well  anchored  here  thou  art  secure, 
Though   winds   and  waves   assail; 

Rejoice  my  soul,  yet  o'er  them  all 
Through  Christ  you  shall  prevail. 

The  sun  we  must  believe  is  set 

Still  in  the  firmament, 
Though    intervening   shadows   may 

His  light  to  us  prevent. 

So  darkness  may  surround  God's  Throne, 

But  still  His  Word  to  me 
Is  pledged  in  truth,  and  shall  break  forth 

And   make   all   shadows   flee. 

I'll  then  outvie  the  feathered  throng 

That  sing  in  yonder  grove; 
Their  song  is  sweet,  but  still  they  know 

Naught  of  redeeming  love, 

That  cheers  the  heart  of  pilgrims  bound 

For  Zion's  happy  land; 
For  them  it  purchased  evermore 

Pleasures   at   God's  right  hand. 


[127] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


What  Is  Love. 

You  ask  me  for  to  write  of  love; 

Alas!  what  shall  I  do? 
I  fear  my  tongue  and  pen  will  fail 

To   paint   its   vivid   hue. 

For  though  in  these  degenerate  days 

Its  absence  we   deplore; 
It  flourished  has,  most  beautiful, 

In  happy  times  of  yore. 

And  stronger  love  than  what's  displayed, 

We  cannot  easy  find; 
'Tween  Jonathan  and  Jesse's  son, 

It's  of  so  rare  a  kind. 

Their  hearts  were  joined  with  stronger  cords 

Than  binds  the  men  of  earth, 
To  any  of  their  social  joys, 

Or  their  unhallowed  mirth. 

The  maiden's  heart  in  love  may  mourn 

For  him  that's  gone  afar, 
Even  this  comes  short  of  what  we  read 

Of   these   two   men   of  war. 

Their  love,  though  strong,  could  not  endure; 

Death  laid  his  hand  so  chill 
Upon  these  two,  whose  history 

Makes  readers  thereof  thrill. 

Earth  is  by  far  too  cold  a  clime 

To  make  love  perfect  grow, 
It  bloomed  in  Eden  once,  but  now 

It   is   unknown   below. 

Then,  Holy  Spirit,  I  would  ask 
Thine  aid  —  when  ask'd,  that's  sure 

To  guide  my  pen  while  I  would  trace 
Love  to  its  fountain  pure. 

Where  to  begin  I  hardly  know, 

It  no  beginning  had; 
From    everlasting   to   the    same, 

And  this  should  make  us  glad. 

[128] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


God  at  the  first  made  man  upright, 

But  he  inventions  sought 
Out  for  himself,  and  fell  by  sin; 

Then  who  would  ever  thought 

When  Adam,  who  did  represent 

At  large  the  human  race, 
Had  mar'd  God's  Image  in  his  breast, 

That  He  would  it  replace. 

His  Justice  was  offended,  and 

It  must  be  satisfied, 
But  "God  is  love,"  and  He  Himself 

A   ransom   did  provide. 

Made  of  a  woman,  He,  His  Son, 
Sent  forth,  Who  knew  no  sin; 

And  yet  He  was  made  sin  for  us, 
To  make  us  near  of  kin. 

That  this  was  love,  let  Pilate's  hall 
Of  judgment  dark  declare; 

Gethsemane  and  Calvary 
Their  record,  too,  will  bear. 

He  died,  and  by  His  Death  o'ercame 
Death,  hell,  sin  and  the  grave; 

And  now  He  pleads  the  cause  above 
Of  those  He  died  to  save. 

It  now  remains  for  us  to  ask, 

Do  we  this  plan  approve 
Of  great  salvation,  and  if  we 

Are  sharers  in  this  love. 


My  Sabbaths 

"  'Twere  needful  to  converse  with  our  past  hours, 
And  ask  them  what  report  they  bore  to  Heaven." 

Three  years  of  Sabbaths  I  have  lived  and  more  — 
They  all  are  gone  and  naught  can  them  restore; 

Where  are  they  fled?  "With  years  beyond  the  flood," 
There  to  bear  witness  of  my  ill  or  good. 

[  129] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

I've  lost  in  Adam  what  I  cannot  find, 
A  holy  spotless  purity  of  mind; 

And  yet  the  law  perfection  doth  require, 
And  nothing  less  than  that,  and  that  entire, 

Will  it  receive  at  any  sinner's  hand; 
This  is  a  great  and  yet  a  just  demand; 

For  our  unfitness  its  demands  to  pay, 
Don't  make  its  claims  the  less  in  any  way. 

Obey  and  live,  has  still  its  language  been, 
And  in  default  of  this  its  threats  are  keen; 

Sinai's  thunder  sounds  but  dread  and  fear 
To  an  awakened  guilty  conscience  ear. 

Can    any   sinner   consolation   draw 
From  the  frail  fragments  of  a  broken  law? 

Being  rendered  weak  through  sin,  it  cannot  save, 
But  yet  it  doth  retain  its  power  to  crave. 

'Tis  strong  as  ever  to  condemn  the  soul 
That  hath  not  taken  Jesus  as  its  whole. 

God  hath  both  made  the  Sabbath  and  did  keep 
It  first,  by  way  of  precept,  that  His  sheep 

By  imitating  Him  should  keep  that  rest,, 
That  makes  the  Sabbath  of  all  days  the  blest. 

It  is  the  holy  ground  where  Christ  doth  meet 

The  Church,  His  Bride,  with  promises  most  sweet; 

She  may  be  seen  here  in  this  wilderness, 
Reclining  on  His  Arm  in  costly  dress. 

And  shall  unhallowed  footsteps  dare  to  tread 
Upon  that  place  where  Christ  hath  deigned  to 
spread 

A  banquet  for  to  feast  His  royal  bride, 

Where  oft  her  wants  He  with  choice  gifts  supplied. 

She's  here  well  guarded  by  Omnipotence, 
"On  all  the  glory  there  is  a  defense." 

[130] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Then  if  by  work,  or  idle  talk,  or  play, 
I  do  neglect  to  keep  that  holy  day, 

God  still  is  jealous;  of  His  right  shall  He, 
If  I  presume  to  rob  Him,  silent  be; 

Or  shall  He  hold  me  guiltless  in  that  day, 

In  which  He'll  judge  my  every  thought  and  way? 

Nay,  it  is  dreadful  for  to  think  or  tell 
With  fellow  sinners  I  must  go  to  hell. 

Except  repentance  seize  upon  Christ's  worth, 
Ere  the  decree  decisive  be  gone  forth 

That  shall  forever  fix  my  future  state, 

In  Heaven  or  hell  the  change  is  vastly  great. 

And  is  this  thread  of  life,  this  fleeting  breath, 
The  only  step  that's  now  'tween  me  and  death? 

This  moment  finds  me  'mong  earth's  tenantry, 
The  next  may  ope  eternity  to  me. 

Now  is  the  time  accepted,  now's  the  day, 
The  poorest  may  find  wealth  that  won't  decay, 

By  taking  Christ  and  trusting  of  their  case 

To  Him,  in  vain  Who  bids  none  seek  His  Face. 

Yes,  they  may  trust  to  Him  without  a  grudge, 
Who  is  an  advocate  as  well  as  judge. 

God's  Holy  Word  inviteth  us,  and  all 

That  will  but  hear  may  live,  for  He  doth  call 

To  every  nation  from  the  rising  sun, 
Till  where  he  sets,  salvation  work  is  done; 

And  is  complete  in  Him  alone  that  died, 

The  mocked,  the  scourged,  the  scoffed,  the  crucified. 

And  now,  behold,  He  lives  for  evermore, 
Who  hath  the  sins  of  all  His  elect  bore. 

Then   shall  I  crucify  my  Lord  anew, 
By  doing  what  He  hath  said  not  to  do? 

[131] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


To  enjoy  pleasure  when  it  is  a  sin, 

Is  what  no  blood-bought  soul  should  e'er  begin; 

The  time  bygone  may  well  enough  suffice 
For  Gentile  works  and  Gentile  vanities. 

Besides  my  coming  Sabbaths  may  be  few, 
Then  let  me  them  observe  with  vigor  new. 

My  days  to  number  teach  me,  Lord,  that  I 
To  the  true  wisdom  may  my  heart  apply, 

Lest  that  my  days  in  vanity  be  passed 
And  so  fall  short  of  Glory  at  the  last. 


Christ,  the  Great  Physician 

Helpless  and  hopeless,  almost  I 

Had  said,  is  my  condition; 
Stop  rash  conclusion  till  I  try 

Christ,  the  well  proved  Physician. 

I'll  go  to   Him  all  self-debased 
And   bend   me   in   contrition, 

For  weaker  ones  than  me  He  raised, 
He's  such  a  good  Physician. 

Though  He  be  high,  yet  He  respect 
Hath  to  the  poor's  petition; 

No  case  is  lost  through  His  neglect, 
He's  such  a  kind   Physician. 

Whene'er  He  takes  a  case  in    hand, 
The  cure  ends  in  completion; 

And  none  should  then  despairing  stand, 
But  call  this   Great  Physician. 

Physicians  else  may  do  their  best 

To  cure  indisposition, 
And  fail,  except  the  means  be  blest 

By  Christ,  the  head  Physician. 

Besides,  being  God,  our  nature  He 

Took;  this  is  no  tradition, 
That  He  well  qualified  should  be 

For  fallen  man's  Physician. 

[  132] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


A  salve  He  hath  for  every  sore; 

No  matter  what  condition 
The  wound  hath  been  in  heretofore, 

Christ  is  the  sealed  Physician. 

At  no  time  baffled  is  His  skill; 

Oh!  when  will  real  submission 
Be  ours  unto  the  Sovereign  Will 

Of  the  all  wise  Physician? 

He  knows  our  frailty  and  pur  frame, 
Yea,  and  our  soul's  position; 

From  age  to  age  He  is  the  same 
Unchangeable  Physician. 

This  all  is  good  and  better  still, 
Then  be  this  my  ambition, 

That  He,  Who  hath  unerring  skill 
Shall  be  my  chief  Physician. 

For  He  of  sin  can  cure  my  soul, 
And  save  it  from  perdition; 

Then  may  I  ever  more  extol 
The  Name  of  this  Physician. 


The  Fallen  Leaf 

One  autumn  day  there  blew  a  breeze 
Which  noisy  swept  among  the  trees; 

When,  lo!  a  leaf  fell  near 
To  where  I  sat,  which  seemed  to  say, 
"I  was  so  lifelike  in  blythe  May, 

I  dreamed  not  to  be  here. 

"Yes,  then  I,  healthy,  fresh  and  green, 
Upon  the  bough  might  have  been  seen; 

But  soon  I  found  decay 
Had  seized  me  with  its  withering  breath, 
And  now,  you  see,  I've  met  my  death 

fey  this  rough  breeze  today." 

O  fallen  leaf,  thought  I,  thou  art 
A  messenger  sent  to  my  heart, 

Of  death  me  to  remind; 
Thou  driven  wert  before  the  blast, 

[133] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Thy  beauty  and  thy  life  is  past, 
'Tis  so  with  human  kind. 

Yes,  mankind  falls  as  thou  hast  done; 
A  few  days,  and  his  race  being  run, 

His   spirit  takes   its  flight; 
The  grave  receives  and  keeps  the  clay 
Until  the  resurrection  day, 

Which  shall  both  reunite. 

But  leaf,  thou  life  no  more  shalt  know; 
Awaits  thee  neither  joy  nor  woe, 

Time  thy  short  tale  did  tell; 
But  man  must  in  existence  be, 
In  future  through  eternity, 

In  Heaven  or  in  hell. 

A  leaf  to  some  might  seem  so  small, 
'Twould  scarce  be  worth  a  thought  at  all, 

But  think  not  so  do  I; 
A  fallen  leaf  by  age  or  youth, 
When  seen,  should  bring  to  mind  this  truth, 

That  man,  frail  man,  must  die. 

We  should  not  learn  to  despise 
What  would,  if  we'd  but  use  our  eyes, 

Tell  us,  and  tell  us  true, 
That  we  are  mortal  and  must  soon, 
Though  now  like  leaves  in  May  or  June, 

Bid  our  place  here,  Adieu! 

Then  make  me,  Lord,  improving  be 
What  I  around  me  daily  see; 

For  if  I'd  right  discern, 

There's  naught  would  come  before  my  eye, 
Howe'er  so  small,  but  I'd  thereby 

A  useful  lesson   learn. 


On  Approaching  God 

O  Thou  whose  praise  is  still  by  angels  sung, 
How  shall  I  take  Thy  Name  upon  my  tongue? 

How  shall  a  finite  being  speak  aright 
The  praises  of  a  Being  Infinite? 

[134] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


How  shall  a  child  of  fallen  Adam  bring 
Praise  that  accepted  shall  be  by  this  King, 

Before  Whom  angels  doth  their  faces  veil, 
Then   how   shall   I   approach,   a   mortal   frail 

To  praise  the  Holy,  Holy,  Holy  Name 

Of  Him  Who  was,  and  is,  and  shall,  the  same 

Infinite,  Wise  and  Holy  Being,  be 
Unchangeable  from  beginning  to  eternity? 

By  sin  polluted,  how  shall  I  draw  nigh 
To  bear  the  look  of  His  Omniscient  Eye 

Who  a  whole  world  as  one  man  doth  see, 
And  there  is  naught  that  from  Him  hid  can  be. 

Then  surely  Thou,  my  Lord,  my  God,  who  art, 
Dost  with  a  perfect  knowledge  know  my  heart; 

Its  deepest  sins  exposed  are  to  Thine  eye, 
As  well  as  those  which  on  its  surface  lie. 

No  thought  or  wish  can  hid  be  from  Thy  view, 
Such  is  the  God  with  Whom  we  have  to  do. 

Then  how  shall  I  approach?  and  yet  I  must, 
Although  a  very  worm  of  the  dust. 

And  to  His  Name  be  praise,  Who  paved  the  way 
That  sinners  such  as  I  approach  Him  may. 

Christ  opened  hath  the  way  unto  the  tree 
Of  life,  that  we  might  eat  and  not  death  see. 

Yes,  Christ  by  dying  opened  hath  the  way 
Unto  life's  tree,  that  we  might  live  for  aye; 

And  sure  it  little  is  enough  that  man 
Would  jglorify  God  for  redemption's  plan. 

To  Father,  Son  and  Spirit  may  I  give 
Due  glory  for  redemption  while  I  live; 

Yes,  while  I  live,  O  may  I  ever  be 
Praising  one  Holy  God  in  persons,  Three. 

[135] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Alike  in  power   and   the  very   same 

In  substance,  and  doth  equal  glory  claim. 

Praise  to  the  Father  for  Infinite  Love, 

Who  sent  His  Son,  Who  well  that  love  did  prove! 

Praise  to  the  Son,  Who,  willing  came  to  die 
That  He  the  righteous  law  might  satisfy! 

Yes,  He  the  law  did  willingly  obey, 

And  did  the  debt  we  owed  to  justice  pay. 

He  magnified  the  law,  we  broken  had, 
Yea,  by  Him  it  was  honorable  made. 

His  life  was  that  of  suffering,  grief  and  toil, 
From  Satan's  hand,  by  death,  He  took  the  spoil. 

For  surely  He,  His  precious  life  up  gave 
.  That  He  might  an  elected  number  save, 

Nor  could  death  o'er  this  victim  long  hold  claim, 
He  entered  Heaven  in  His  elect's  name. 

Captivity  He  surely  captive  led, 

That  He  might  as  the  church's  living  Head, 

Gifts,  which  He  did  receive,  on  men  bestow, 
Though  that  they  had  been  rebels  He  did  know. 

And  of  gifts,  which  to  give  the  right  is  His, 
None  greater  than  that  of  the  Spirit  is; 

For  He  doth  thoroughly  convince  of  sin, 
And  doth  a  love  to  God  beget  within. 

Blest  Spirit  come,  blest  Spirit  come  to  me; 
Blest  Spirit  come  and  with  me  dwelling  be; 

Yes,  come  blest  Spirit,  dwell  Thou  in  my  heart, 
There  Thy  abode  make,  nor  from  thence  depart. 

O  living  Oil  within  the  Word's  pure  lamp, 
Of  Heaven  sure  Thou  art  the  royal  stamp; 

Where  comes  Thy  Light,  there  darkness  flies  away, 
When  Thy  impression  sins,  strength  doth  decay. 

[136] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Effectually  Christ's  Blood  Thou  dost  apply, 

Sweet  Spirit,  for  Thy  work,  praise  give  would  I; 

Of  truth,  O  Spirit,  guide  me  in  the  way, 
And  teach  me  still  how,  and  for  what,  to  pray, 

So  that  accepted  I  may  be  when  I 

Do  come  to  pray  before  the  Lord,  Most  High; 

And  while  here  for  to  pray  I  may  not  cease, 
And  thereto  get  an  answer  still  of  peace. 

For  none  can  pray  to  or  praise  God  aright 
Who  hath  not  got  the  Spirit's  Life  and  Light. 

Lord  make  me  pray  to  Thee,  and  praise  Thee  still, 
For  I  approach  must,  and  through  Christ  I  will. 


To  My  Soul 

Rise  my  soul,  arise  and  sing, 
Why  art  thou  so  sad  today? 

Shelter  take  beneath  God's  wing- 
Needless  sorrow  chase  away; 

Surely  thou   hast  ample  reason 

For  to  sing,  e'en  in  night  season. 

Rise   my  soul,   thy   God  to   praise, 
Why  art  thou  so  dull  today? 

Unto   Him  pour  out  thy  lays  — 
What  doth  mean  this,  thy  delay; 

Praising's  not  a  mere  duty, 

'Tis  a  privilege  and  a  beauty. 

Rise  my  soul,  thy  God  to  bless, 
Silent  why  art  thou  today? 

God's  a  God  of  faithfulness  — 
Patiently  then  on  Him  stay; 

Faithfulness  He  keepeth  ever, 

And  unfaithful  shall  be  never. 

Rise  my  soul,  faith  exercise, 
Why  desponding  so  today? 

Present  chastisement  despise 
Not,  my  soul,  but  humbly  say, 

[137] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


0  my  Lord,  while  Thou  art  scourging 
Me,  my  soul  from  dross  be  purging. 

Trials  many  I  have  met, 

And  no  doubt  shall  meet  again; 

Nor  at  them  let  me  e'er  fret, 

Which  would  prove  I'm  tried  in  vain; 

Nor  in  yielding  to  grief's  billow, 

Hang  my  harp  upon  the  willow. 

1  should  have  no  will  but  Thine; 

0  my  Lord,  then  make  me  still 
Willing   my  will  to  resign 

To   Thy   Holy,    Divine   Will. 
If  a  saint,  I  in  some  measure 
Will  make  welcome  Thy  good  pleasure. 

Fain  I'd  sing  a  song  unto 
Thee,  my  loving  Lord  and  King; 

Of  Thy  Grace  my  song  renew, 
Of  Thy  Mercy  let  me  sing; 

Grace  has  brought  and  still  is  bringing 

To  my  soul  great  cause  for  singing. 

If  I  sing  of  love  unbought, 

God's    Love,   lasting,  pure   and   strong, 
And  how  it  poor  me,  out  sought, 

1  need  never  want  a  song; 

Then  my  soul  sweet  songs  be  raising, 
Wherewith  God   I'll   still  be  praising. 


Not  of  Works 

'Tis  not  by  works  which  we  have  wrought, 

Nor  works  we  yet  may  do, 
That  we  can  be  to  Heaven  brought, 

Life's  way  no  more  lies  through. 

Our  works  for  merit  they  have  none, 

Yet  we  rejoice  to  say, 
That  the  fair  crown  of  life  is  won 

Through  Christ,  the  Living  Way. 

No,  not  in  turning  from  our  sin 
Can  we  the  least  depend, 

[138] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


For  'tis  Christ's  Spirit's  work  within 
Us,  that  our  lives  can  mend. 

Not  even  in  our  faith  we  may 
Put  trust,  however  strong; 

If  we  on  graces  merit  lay, 

Instead   of   Christ,   we're   wrong. 

We  nothing  have,  can  nothing  claim, 
But  what  Grace  furnish  doth; 

And  never  shall  another  name 
Than  Jesus  save  from  wrath. 

What  did  our  ransom  Jesus  cost? 

His  life  and  nothing  less; 
And  hence  it  is  more  than  we  lost, 

We  do,  or  shall  possess. 

I  dare  not,  nor  would  if  I  might, 

Put  aught  in  Jesus  place; 
For  to  be  saved's  my  heart's  delight, 

By  free  and  Sovereign  Grace. 

Salvation's  not  of  works,  but  Grace, 
Let  this  still  be  my  song; 

Yet  good  works  in  their  proper  place 
Doth  unto  grace  belong. 


My  Ebenezer 


Hitherto  the  Lord  hath  brought  me, 
Wherefore  do  I  doubt  His  Power; 

Past  experience  might  have  taught  me 
That  He  hath  been  my  strong  tower. 

Though  the  rude  and  boisterous  billow 
Threatens   oft  to  be  my  grave, 

Christ's  Breast  is  a  soothing  pillow, 
There  reclining  I  am  safe. 

Sheltered  in  the  Rock  of  Ages, 
What  should  then  give  me  alarm? 

For  His  Promise  sure  engages 

Still  to  shield  me  safe  from  harm. 

[139] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Though  I've  in  and  outward  striving, 
Why  should  this  yield  me  dismay? 

Grace   within  I   can't   see   thriving, 
But  can  God's  rich  grace  decay? 

Nipping  frosts  and  chilling  breezes, 
When  by  faith  well  understood, 

Serve  to  kill  my  soul  diseases, 
And  thus  issues  in  my  good. 

If  in  truth  God  is  my  Father, 

Though   He  may  chastise   me   sore, 

Hence   I    confidence  may   gather 
That  there's  grace  for  me  in  store. 

Not  what  I  might  most  desire, 
Would  for  certain  suit  me  best; 

But,  Lord,  give  what  I  require 
For  to  make  me  truly  blest. 

And  if  Thou  should  see't  expedient 
That  affliction's  cup  I  drink, 

O  make  faith  still  one  ingredient, 
Lest  beneath  its  weight  I  sink. 

This  makes  sweet  the  bitter  waters, 
O  the  faith  that  works  by  love; 

Many  a  heavy  cloud  it  scatters 
As  it  leads  to  scenes  above. 

In  the  desert  many  an  Elim 
Faith  is  privileged  to  enjoy; 

And   it   draws   supplies   from    Salem, 
Which  the  world  can't  destroy. 

O  that  all  knew  what  true  pleasure 
In  the  soul  is  spread  abroad, 

By  possessing  Christ,  the  treasure, 
Of  the  everlasting  God. 

Of  perfection  He's  the  fountain, 
Perfect  God  and  perfect  Man; 

Thus   o'erleaping  every  mountain 
That  could  intercept  the  plan 

Of  salvation  through  His  Merit, 
Then  away  with  every  scheme, 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


That  the   glory  would  inherit, 
Due  alone  to  Jesus'  name. 

Grant,  Lord,  that  I  may  be  wearing 
Christ's  pure  robe  of  righteousness; 

Leaning   on   His   Arm,   fearing 
Lest  I  should  forfeit  my  dress. 

And,  Blest  Spirit,  still  be  biding 
In  my  heart,  applying  there 

Christ's  Blood,  and  O  from  backsliding 
Keep  me  with  Thy  special  care. 

And  let  not  my  harp  be  hanging 

Useless  on  the  willow  tree, 
But  in  tune  for  sweetest  singing 

May  it  still  be  kept  by  Thee. 


Consolation 

When  I  am  pained,  this  comforts  me, 

It  is  not  pain  eternal; 
That  surely  must  most  dreadful  be 

In  regions  that's  infernal. 

There  in  their  state  they  are  so  fixed, 

In   agony  despairing; 
For  with  their  woe  no  mercy's  mixed, 

A  moment's  ease  declaring. 

But  I  who  live  where  Grace  her  voice 
And  kingdom  is  extending, 

In  tribulation  should  rejoice 
Upon  that  grace  depending. 

I  do  believe  —  though  oft  it  seems 

To  be  a  contradiction  — 
That  mercy  much  displays  its  beams 

In  sanctified  affliction. 

The  Lord  into  His  favor  takes 
His  people  oft  by  scourging, 

And  each  fruit-bearing  tree  He  makes 
Bring  forth  more  fruit  by  purging. 

[141] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Stripe  after  stripe  He  gives  His  own, 

And  this  is  most  expedient, 
That  when  they  may  have  careless  grown, 

He  may  make  them  obedient. 

It  hath  pleased  Him  into  my  hand 

To  put  the  cup  of  sorrow, 
And  weeping  for  a  night  may  stand, 

But  joy  comes  with  the  morrow. 

For  though  this  life  may  be  a  night 

Of  suffering  and  sadness, 
The  resurrection  morning's  light 

Will  bring  me  joy  and  gladness. 

The  trumpet's  sound  shall  then  awake 
This  body  from  death's  slumber, 

And  God  shall  to  His  Kingdom  take 
Me  with  His  elect  number. 

My  soul  and  body,  which  death's  hand 

For  a  short  time  shall  sever, 
Shall  then  in  perfect  union  stand, 

To  part  no  more  forever. 

The  saints  are  safe  in  every  case, 

For  God  is  their  protection; 
They  all  shall  have  their  part  through  grace, 

In  the  first  resurrection. 


Think  On  Me 

Another  errand  to  the  throne 
Of  grace  I  now  have  got; 

God  weary  of  me  hath  not  grown, 
Because  He  wearies  not. 

For  if  He  could  be  weary,  I 
Had  wearied  Him  long  since; 

But  just  the  more  my  God  I  try, 
The  more  He  doth  evince 

His  love  for  me,  and  thus  it  is 
That  still  to  Him  I  go, 

When  anything  I  find  amiss, 
The  matter  Him  to  show. 

[142] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


So  now,  my  God,  I  come  to  leave 
This  matter  just  with  Thee; 

I  can  do  nothing  I  perceive, 
But  think,  my  God,  on  me. 

Think  on  me,  O  my  God,  think  on 
Thy  servant  sorely  tried; 

I  cannot,  will  not,  leave  the  throne 
Of  grace  and  be  denied. 


A  Humiliation  Day 

Lord,  having  set  this  day  apart 
That  I  might  grieve  for  sin, 

With  true  humility  of  heart 
Let  me  the  same  begin. 

My  faults  this  day  remember  I, 

Or  better  said  'twould  be, 
That  to  remember  them   I'll  try, 

And  pardon  ask  of  Thee. 

To  me  give  pardon,  Lord,  I  pray, 

And  also  sin  control; 
And  do  this  humiliation  day 

Make  useful  to  my  soul. 

Better  in  time  sin  to  forsake, 

Than  through   eternity; 
To  have  my  portion  in  the  lake, 

That  burning  still  shall  be. 

Yet  more  by  love  than  fear  I  should 

Be  led  to  Christ  to  flee, 
And  more  from  love  than  fear  I  would 

Blest  Jesus  fly  to  Thee. 

With  Thee  I  would  lodge  my  complaint, 

To  Thee  my  heart  I  ope; 
So  highly  privileged  are  the  saints, 

They   are  allowed   to   hope. 

And  hope  I  would  despite  of  doubts, 
And  thus  o'ercome  despair; 

Seek  in  my  heart  its  whereabouts, 
Nor  let  it  settle  there. 

[H3] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


This  resolution  I  do  make, 

Lord,  in  Thy  name  and  strength; 

Enable  me  for  Jesus'  sake 
It  to  make  good  at  length. 

Encouragement  I  have  got  some 

Upon  Thy  Name  to  call; 
And  now  Thou  seest,  Lord,  I  have  come 

Upon  Thy  Name  to  call. 

And  do  in  mercy  me  behold, 

Thy  mercy  let  me  find; 
My  sorrows  oft  to  Thee  I've  told, 

My  bleeding  wounds  up  bind. 

My  friends,  I  would  remember,  too, 

My  Lord,  now  Thee  before; 
Be  pleased  of  grace  them  to  renew, 

Grace  give  them  more  and  more. 

I'd  specially  remember  those 

That's  my  relations  near, 
Who  cannot  but  to  my  life's  close 

Unto  my  heart  be  dear. 

And  Lord,  remember  me  and  mine, 
Unto  our  hearts  give  grace; 

And  at  all  hazards  us  incline 
To  seek  in  truth  Thy  Face. 

O  do  the  supplication  hear 
Which  I  now  make  to  Thee; 

Thy  Image  make  my  spirit  hear, 
That  I  like  Thee  may  be. 

All  my  concerns  I  commit 
Would,  Lord,  into  Thy  care, 

To  manage  them  Thou  art  most  fit  — 
Free  me  from  every  snare. 

For  well  Thou  knowest  what's  to  come 

Of  sunshine  and  of  shade, 
E'er  that  the  homeless  shall  at  home 

Safely  to  rest  be  made. 

It  may  be  that  in  seeming  night 

I'll  walk  much  of  the  way, 
Yet  never  let  my  faith  lose  sight 

Of  an  eternal  day. 

[  144] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Still  let  me  strive  to  look  beyond 
The  cloud,  though  dark  and  dense; 

Faith's  eye  to  pierce  that  cloud  is  fond 
Which  Jesus  hides  from  sense. 

Oh,  that  I  could  my  Jesus  still 

Behold  the  cloud  behind! 
Oh,  that  I  to  His  Holy  Will 

Could  better  bring  my  mind! 

My  mind  bring  to  His  Will?  why  say 

I  can't  do  that  at  all; 
He  power  must  give  to  obey, 

Else  who   obey  Him  shall? 

Thou  knowest,  Lord,  what  most  I  need, 
What  most  I  should  bewail; 

Though  merit  I  have  none  to  plead, 
Let  Jesus'  Blood  prevail. 

And  having  set  this  day  apart 

That  I  might  sin  deplore, 
Accept  in  Christ  my  broken  heart 

And  humble't  more  and  more. 

My  Father,  Brother,  Husband,  Friend  — 
Sweet  names  of  God  to  hear; 

And  that  eternity  doth  blend 

With  them,  makes  them  more  dear. 


On  the  Death  of  Mrs.  M. 

The  young  and  strong  death  sometimes  takes, 
As  well  as  those  that's  old  and  frail; 

In  families  this  oft  breaches  makes, 
And  such  a  death  I  now  bewail. 

Yes,  Maggie,  you  have  fully  proved 
How  brittle  is  the  thread  of  life; 

Death's  unrelenting  hand  removed 
At  once  the  mother  and  the  wife. 

The  stroke  most  unexpected  was  — 

But  who  can  tell  when  death  will  come; 

While  gossip's  busy  with  the  cause, 
The  effect  is  your  spirit's  home. 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


You  had  abundance;  what  of  that? 

It  could  not  keep  you  here  when 
Death  in  the  council  chamber  sat; 

Gold  was  of  little  value  then. 

Some  you  have  left  are  yet  too  young 
To  know  the  loss  they  have  sustained; 

One  heart,  however,  must  be  wrung, 
In  losing  all  that  death  has  gained. 

Though  to  all  parties  I  am  but 

A  stranger,  and  can  little  say, 
To  sympathy  my  heart's  not  shut  — 

But  wherefore  do  I  weep  today? 

For  if  that  you  elected  were, 

In  Jesus  you  have  fell  asleep; 
And  if  asleep  in  Jesus,  there 

Is  more  cause  to  rejoice  than  weep. 

True,  when  death  takes  our  friends,  we  feel 

Affection  to  itself  is  true; 
A  breach  is  made  we  cannot  heal, 

But  faith  the  brighter  side  should  view. 

Tomorrow,  Maggie,  and  the  grave 

Will  have  received  your  fair  remains; 

That  human  skill  has  failed  to  save 
Your  death  sufficiently  explains. 

We  speak  of  death  as  if  it  swayed 
A  monarch's  scepter,  and  could  still 

Both  when  and  where  it  chose  invade, 
Ascribing  to  it  tact  and  skill. 

God  sends  it  when  and  where  and  how 
He  pleases  at  His  bidding  just, 

And  therefore,  Maggie,  you  are  now 
What  we'll  be  shortly  —  lifeless  dust. 

But  surely,  surely,  your  demise 
A  voice  of  warning  ought  to  be; 

To  think  upon  pur  end  is  wise, 
If  death  nowise  escape  shall  we. 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


On  Departed  Joys 

Where  are  the  joys  of  infant  days, 

By  infants  felt  alone, 
When  the  fond  mother's  look  conveys 

A  language  to  them  known? 

And  where's  the  joy  of  childhood  when, 

I  at  my  mother's  knee, 
Stood  lisping  o'er  the  prayers  she  then 

So  earnestly  taught  me? 

And  where  are  school  day  joys,  alas! 

Are  they,  too,  gone  away? 
Shall  I  no  more  stand  in  the  class 

And  hear  my  teacher  pray? 

In  going  thither  joy  I  found 

As  I  crossed  field  and  stile, 
While  far  as  I  could  see  around 

All  Nature  wore  a  smile. 

In  working  where's  the  joy  I  had? 

For  now  I  can  work  none, 
Which  is  to  me  a  trial  sad  — 

Joy   after  joy  hath  flown. 

Where  is  the  pleasure  once  I  felt 

In  walking  out  abroad, 
When  meditation  fondly  dwelt 

Upon  the  works  of  God? 

Shown  forth  by  fields  and  flowers  and  trees, 

As  I  did  walk  along, 
Or  whispered  by  the  gentle  breeze, 

Or   birds'   delightful   song; 

Each  season  in  succession  brought 

New  beauties  to  the  eye, 
Where'er  I  looked  God  hath  this  wrought, 

Was  wrote  on  earth  and  sky. 

And  where's  the  joy  made  this  heart  light, 

When  I  did  her  behold, 
Whose  fond  affection  naught  could  blight, 

'Till  death  her  heart  made  cold. 

[147] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


My  mother,  yes,  my  mother,  dear, 

Thou  too  art  gone  from  me; 
Thy  presence  I  no  more  have  here, 

Thy  face  no  more  can  see. 

E'en  greater  joy  I've  had  than  that, 

And  if  I  asked  were  where, 
I'd  say  when  in  God's  house  I  sat 

I  felt  it  then  and  there. 

Yes,  that's  the  joy  I  most  lament 

Of  all  my  joys  that's  flown; 
Yet  why  betray  I  discontent, 

If  I've  El-Bethel  known. 

At  troubles  why  should  I  repine, 

That  common  is  to  man; 
Sure  if  the  God  of  Bethel's  mine 

Lose   Him  I  never  can. 

Though  friends  we've  loved  have  passed  away 

And  joys  which  we  have  known, 
Our  God  unchanging  is  for  aye, 

Unchanging  is   alone. 

For  after  all  confess  we  must, 

With  many  a  heart-wrung  tear, 
Of  spirit  all's  vexation  just — 

Joys  are  so  fleeting  here. 


Returning  Spring 

Again  the  voice  of  Spring  is  heard, 
Which  hill  and  vale  doth  cheer; 

It  hath  to  leafless  trees  declared 
That  they  shall  leaves  soon  wear. 

For  on  trees  which  not  long  ago 

Appeared  to  be  but  dead, 
Buds  life  bespeaking  now  doth  grow 

From  which  leaves  shall  outspread. 

And  have  I  lived,  my  God  and  King, 

Again  Spring  for  to  see? 
Then  let  me  to  the  God  of  Spring 

The  glory  giving  be. 

[148] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Yes,  I  the  God  of  Spring  would  praise, 

Who  doth  of  saints  declare: 
That  they  though  now  like  withered  sprays, 

In  life  shall  flourish  fair. 

O  God,  while  I  on  fields  and  trees 

Do  look,  still  make  me  sing; 
I'll  have  a  better  life  than  these, 

Because  a  better  Spring. 


A  Wish 

O  how  I  wished  my  friends  all  here 

In  Jesus  Christ  were  so; 
Especially  to  those  most  dear 

To  me,  a    wish  I'd  throw. 

And  while  in  Christ  I  wish  them  share, 

I  wish  them  also  health; 
For  them  I  would  pray  agnus'  prayer, 

Enough,  not  too  much,  wealth. 

I,  to  be  short,  wish  them  all  things 

God  sees  good  to  bestow, 
Which  from  another  fountain  springs 

Than  our  deserts,  I  know. 

What  better  could  I  wish  to  those, 
With  what  else  God  gives  here, 

Than  that  in  Christ  they  may  repose, 
Who  to  my  heart  lies  near. 

My  friends,  you  know  my  heart  is  warm, 
Me  for  my  wish  don't  blame; 

In  wishing  where  can  be  the  harm, 
God's  glory  if  our  aim. 


The  Appointed  Time 

Is  there  not  an  appointed  time  to  man 
On  earth,  and  only  God  doth  know  its  span? 

Before  the  youthful  mind  life  long  appears, 
Yea,  to  three-score  and  ten,  or  four-score  years. 

[  149] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


True  some  than  this  have  even  older  been; 
Some  ninety,  some  an  hundred  years,  have  seen. 

But  who  for  years  like  these  would  wish  should 

first 
Remember  that  the  sinner  is  accused, 

Who  hath  an  hundred  years  lived,  and  still 
Obeys  the  dictates  of  a  fallen  will. 

A  heart  grown  callous  and  a  conscience  seared 
Is  theirs  who  long  in  sin  have  persevered. 

The  youthful  mind  is  easier  impressed 
With  holy  feelings;  then  'tis  surely  best 

In  youth  to  give  the  heart  without  reserve 
To  God,  with  purpose  Him  alone  to  serve; 

Who  ever  met  with  any  real  loss 
By  early  taking  Jesus  and  His  Cross? 

So  far  from  this  they  great  advantage  have 
O'er  those  who  do  in  later  life  believe. 

The  penny  of  eternal  life  'tis  true 

God  gives  them  all,  though  some  may  work  but  few 

Hours  in  the  vineyard,  all  that  worketh  there 
Alike  the  life  that  never  ends  shall  share, 

Not  for  their  work,  though  they  should  work  as 

hard 
As  if  life  still  was  for  their  work  reward. 

But  now  again  to   early  piety 

I  would  return  and  its  advantage  see. 

I  might  suppose  two  men,  the  one  in  youth, 
The  other  in  old  age,  brought  to  the  truth; 

And  if  their  days  an  equal  length  would  run, 
Which  would  the  happier  have,  he  that  begun 

To  serve  his  God  in  youth,  or  he  that  was 
In  youth  regardless  of  his   Maker's  laws? 

[150] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Undoubtedly  his  would  the  happier  be 

Who  would  find  soonest  grace  had  made  him  free; 

Peace  in  his  breast  a  pleasant  stream  would  flow, 
While  no  peace  would  the  other's  conscience  know. 

The  one  a  feast  of  joy  would  have  within, 

His  heart  and  conscience  being  purged  from  sin; 

His  inward  man,  unruffled  by  despair, 
Would  still  afford  him  cheerfulness  to  wear. 

The  other  in  his  greatest  joy  would  find 

A  something  that  would  leave  a  sting  behind, 

Which  to  remove  he'd  drink  the  deeper  still 

Of  Pleasure's  so-called  cup,  which  thousands  kill; 

And  if  perchance  he  has  a  thought  to  spare 
On  future  things,  all  is  uncertain  there; 

But  thus  he  strives  his  rising  fears  to  quell, 
That  God  in  mercy  won't  send  him  to  hell. 

But  would  this  give  his  conscience  rest?      Ah,  no! 
He'll  in  the  gall  of  bitterness  still  go 

Until  the  Holy  Ghost  will  fall  with  power 
Upon  his  soul  at  the  eleventh  hour. 

He  then  shall  see  that  mercy  will  not  save 
A  soul  till  justice  hath  all  it  can  crave. 

The  attributes  in  Christ  he'll  see  embrace, 
E'en  justice  there  doth  wear  a  pleasant  face. 

Yet  though  he's  pardoned  at  the  Court  of  Heaven, 
He  by  himself  can  scarcely  be  forgiven; 

With  grief  he'll  think  upon  the  days  he  trod 
The  path  of  life  without  true  hope  in  God. 

A  deal  of  work  he'll  see  he  might  have  done 
If  in  the  right  path  he  had  sooner  run, 

And  a  long  suffering  God  which  him  preserved, 
So  long  without  the  glory  he  deserved; 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


And  if  himself  were  asked,  I'm  sure  he'd  say: 
"An  early  faith  in  Christ's  the  better  way." 

So   much  for  what  the   Christian's,  young  and  old, 
Doth  gain  or  lose  as  they  on  Christ  lay  hold. 

And  now  a  little  I  would  view  the  case 

Of  those  who  live  and  die  untouched  by  grace. 

It  surely  dreadful  is  beyond  compare 
In  Jesus  to  have  neither  lot  nor  share; 

And  what  their  bitter  case  still  makes  more  sad 
Is  for  to  think  that  they  life  might  have  had. 

How  many  perish,  like  the  dying  thief, 

And  will  not  ask  where  they  might  find  relief, 

Till  death  the  slender  cord  of  life  doth  cut 
Which  shall  Hope's  door  to  them  forever  shut. 

No  purgatorial  fire  shall  them  cleanse, 
For  purged  they  cannot  be  by  any  means 

Who  out  of  God's  rich  covenant  doth  die; 
And  where  for  shelter  shall  their  spirit  fly? 

Jesus  told  of  a  Heaven  and  a  hell, 
But  of  no  intermediate  place  did  tell. 

Whoso  in  this  life  will  not  be  made  pure 

From  sin,  are  those  who  must  hell's  pains  endure. 

To  judge  each  other  we  can  claim  no  right, 
We  all  are  guilty  in  God's  holy  sight. 

But  those  who  timeous  doth  with  Christ  close  in, 
Shall  be  made  clean  from  soul  polluting  sin. 

O   God,  displeasing  soul  destroying  thing, 
Beyond  Thy  reach  the  ransomed  yet  shall  sing 

His  matchless  praise,  who  willingly  did  give 

His  precious  life  that  all  who  would  might  live. 

O  that  men  wise  enough  were  to  attend 
To  and  consider  well  their  latter  end. 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Wherein's  our  profit,  though  from  pole  to  pole, 
Earth  we  possessed  if  we  do  lose  our  soul. 

Immortal  soul,  what  must  thy  value  be, 
When  Jesus  gave  His  life  to  ransome  thee? 

Spark  of  God's  kindling,  never  more  to  die, 
This  life  being  o'er  thou'lt  live  beyond  the  sky, 

Or,  thought  heart-rending,  thou  shalt  sink  to  hell, 
Amongst  the  fallen  angels  there  to  dwell, 

Shut  out  forever  from  the  saints'  delight, 
Engulfed  in  billows  of  eternal  night. 

Who  can  clescribe  then  misery  that's  there, 
A  prey  to  insurmountable  despair? 

As  God  is  just,  so  shall  their  smoke  ascend, 
Who  would  not  to  His  calls  of  grace  attend. 

And  what  if  after  all  this  be  my  case, 
With  all  my  high  pretensions  unto  grace? 

I,  Ballam-like,  the  Christian's  death  would  die, 
But  doth  my  conscience  to  me  testify 

That  I  at  heart  feel  what  I  do  profess? 
Is  mine  indeed  a  life  of  Godliness? 

God  is  not  mocked,  I  cannot  Him  deceive, 
For  hypocrites  their  portion  shall  receive. 

No  sinners  are  so  daring  sure  as  they 
Who  vow  to  God  and  don't  intend  to  pay; 

Their  chief  aim  is  to  have  men's  good  opinion, 
Which  shows  that  they  are  under  sin's  dominion; 

With  fellow  men  for  Christians  they  may  go, 

But   cannot   cheat   God  with   their   outward   show; 

Their  hope  shall  perish  when  their  soul  takes  flight; 
O   God,  I   ask,  am  I  a  hypocrite? 

Before  a  God  of  Truth  how  shall  I  stand 
If  I  still  hold  a  lie  in  my  right  hand? 

[153] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


From  self  to  Jesus  have  I  never  fled  — 
My  true  condition,  Lord,  before  me  spread. 

If  I  am  self  deceived,  me  undeceive, 

And  make  me  from  the  heart  on  Christ  believe; 

With  a  consistent  walk  and  conversation, 
Thereto  being  bound  by  holy  obligation. 

I'm  long   diseased,   and   therefore   apprehend 
That  my  appointed  time  draws  to  an  end; 

Death's  on  the  march,  who  can  his  steps  retard? 
I  soon  shall  peaceful  lie  in  yon  churchyard. 

Nor  at  this  need  I  be  cast  down  or  vexed, 
As  death  is  to  mortality  annexed; 

And  I  no  better  am  than  those  which  have 
Before  me  passed  into  the  silent  grave. 

With  resignation  I  would  yield  my  breath 

Into  His  Hand  Who  took  the  sting  from  death; 

In  Him  secure  in  life  or  death  I'll  be, 
Yes,  Jesus,  Thou  art  all  in  all  to  me. 

On  earth  I  am  a  stranger;  Lord,  me  guide, 
Forever  let  my  soul  in  Thee  abide; 

From  all  my  troubles  and  from  all  my  grief 
In  Thee  I've  found  a  thousandfold  relief; 

Clouds  gathered  round  me,  yet  Thy  promise  bright 
Chased  them  away  by  making  darkness  light; 

I  of  affliction  have  drunk  deep  and  long, 
Yet  still  have  ample  cause  to  sing  a  song 

Unto  His  Name,  Who  hath  preserved  me, 
Yea,  and  all  praise  to  Him  forever  be, 

Who   doth  in  life   His   saints'  feet   keep   through 

grace, 
And  is  in  death  their  only  hiding  place. 

Christ  for  His  people  vanquished  death  and  hell, 
Therefore  in  death  they  shall  be  safe  and  well. 


[154] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

'Tis  thus  that  death  a  shadow  is  become 
Through  which  saints  pass  to   their  delightsome 
home. 

The  time  appointed  soon  must  come  to  all: 
This  hour,  yea,  this  moment,  death  may  call 

The  spirit  from  the  body  to  dismiss; 

Then  all  should  strive  to  be  prepared  for  this. 

Before  the  uprise  of  tomorrow's  sun 
Eternity  to  us  may  have  begun; 

Our  state  at  death  forever  shall  remain 
Fixed  in  unutterable  joy  or  pain. 


The  Formbay 

There  is  a  ship  at  Cardiff  lying, 
God  be  gracious  to  her  crew; 

They  may  be  on  works  relying  — 
How  I  wish  they  Jesus  knew. 

What  or  who  they  are  is  rather 
More  than  I  am  fit  to  say; 

But  among  them  is  my  brother, 
Therefore  for  them  all  I  pray. 

For  if  he  had  not  been  going, 

It  is  likely  I  would  not 
Ought  of  ship  or  port  been  knowing, 

Neither  now  can  be  forgot. 

Lord  preserve  those  men  from  danger 
To  which  they  exposed  may  be, 

And   though  to   each  other  strangers, 
Make  each  know  himself  and  Thee. 

And  if  Thou  wilt  grace  be  giving 

To   this   interesting  crew, 
Then  will  follow  holy  living, 

Aims  and  motives  all  so  new. 

When  I  hear  she  is  freighted, 
And  from  Cardiff  gone  away, 

[155] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

Will  the  interest  be  abated 
I  have  in  the  Formbay? 

No,  my  prayers  that  ship  will  follow, 

Whether  sailing  or  in  port; 
Winds  can't  wreck  nor  billows  swallow 

If  God  will  be  her  escort. 

Lord,  I  ask  that  from  disaster 

Thou  wilt  keep  the  Formbay; 
From  the  lowest  to  the  master 

Teach  her  crew  to  praise  and  pray. 

Thou  art  God  and  none  beside  Thee; 

Thou  canst  save  and  Thou  alone; 
With  Thy  Holy  Spirit  guide  me 

Now  in  coming  to  Thy  Throne. 

Here,  Lord,   I   give  them  over 

To  Thee  as  the  God  of  Grace; 
With  Thy  Righteousness  them  cover, 

Lead   them  to  Thy  holy  peace. 

Jesus  the  propitiation 

For  His  elect's  sins  became, 
Therefore  some  from  every  nation 

Shall  be  brought  to  praise  Thy  Name. 

O  my  God,   I've  been  imploring 

Grace  for  whom  Thou  well  dost  know, 

And  Thy   Grace  we'll  be   adoring 
If  Thou'lt  grace   on  them  bestow. 

Thou  art  God,  the  Great  and  Glorious, 
Working  mighty  wonders  still; 

Over   sin   Thou'lt   be   victorious, 
Whom  Thou'lt  with  Thy  Spirit  fill. 

Lord,  I  scarce  can  give  up  speaking; 

O  that  I  in  faith  could  pray 
Till  Thy  Name  all  would  be  seeking 

Who  are  in  the  Formbay. 

Brother,  we  can  God  be  serving 
Whether  we're  on  sea  or  land; 

O  how  sweet  to  be  observing 
All  the  workings  of  His  Hand! 

[156] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


O  my  brother,  live  to  Jesus, 
Shipmates  to   Him  winning  be; 

Tell  them  its  His  Spirit  frees  us 
Who  once  walked  upon  the  sea. 

Who  can  tell  how  great  a  matter 
Kindle  may  a  little  spark; 

Good   example   round   you   scatter, 
Saints  should  not  be  lanterns  dark. 

Grace  your  spirit  be  caressing, 
This  of  God  I  ask  for  you; 

You   deserve   a   sister's   blessing, 
And  be  sure  you  have  it,  too. 


A  Peep  Behind  the  Screen;  or 
The  Hypocrite's  Account  of 
Himself 

As  if  by  chance,  not  long  ago, 

A  person  I   did  see, 
Who  did  me  think,  for  aught  I  know, 

Both  deaf  and  blind  to  be. 

At  least  he  did  no  notice  take 

That  I   at  all  was  near; 
Thought  I,  I  will  not  silence  break 

But  watch  your  movements  here. 

He  seemed  engaged  and  did  not  look 

As  he  had  time  to  spare 
For  conversation,  so  I  took 

A  seat  in  silence  there. 

A    grin    of    self-complacency 

His  features  did  pervade, 
The  cause  of  which  I  found  to  be 

His  great  success  in  trade. 

A  strange  delight  was  in  his  eye, 
Lips  moved  but  not  in  prayer; 

A  hypocrite's  soliloquy 
He  was  enjoying  there. 

[157] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


He  wore  as  him  became  a  cloak, 

Which  now  aside  he  threw; 
At  first  he  in  a  whisper  spoke, 

But  audible  soon  grew. 

And  thus  a  hypocrite  to  see 

Was  something  strange,  I  thought, 

And  made  each  word  he  uttered  be 
By  me  most  eager  caught. 

Perhaps  he  thought  he  was  alone 

While   he  soliloquized, 
Else  would  he  what  he  was  have  shown, 

But  kept  himself  disguised. 

However,  silent  I  remained 

To  gather  what  I  could, 
And  thus  more  information   gained 

Than  otherwise  I  would. 

His  words,  though  spoke  with  fiendish  glee, 

Fell  like  the  knell  of  death; 
At  least  they  sounded  so  to  me, 

Who,   almost   out   of  breath, 

Had  listened  while  he  did  confess 

Himself   a    hypocrite, 
And  just  the  words  he  did  express 

I  am  about  to  write. 

"I  am  a  hypocrite,"  he  said, 

"At  best  a  very  cheat; 
To  no  denomination  wed, 

On  every  sect  I  wait. 

"I  can't  endure  a  narrow  creed, 

Mine's  of  elastic  made; 
The  very  size  and  sort  I  need 

For  driving  such  a  trade. 

"A  patent  for  it  I  have  got, 

The  devil's  hand  which  bears; 
But  as  to  that  it  matters  not, 

There's  time  enough  for  fears. 

"My  motto  is  the  saint  to  ape 
In  every  way  I  can, 

[158] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

Content  if  I  can  but  escape 
The   scrutiny  of  man. 

"I  have  a  sanctimonious  face, 

Which  serves  my  end  so  well; 
Though  to  professors  a  disgrace, 

Among  them  I  can  dwell. 

"I  on  their  privileges  lay  claim, 

And  though  I   live  by   tricks, 
I  like  to  get  an  honest  name 

From  those  with  whom  I  mix. 

"Great  holiness  I  do  pretend, 

Proud  to  be  called  a  saint; 
And  self  the  better  to  commend 

I  use  a  little  paint. 

"Affecting  this,  denouncing  that, 

My  tongue  gets  little  rest; 
In  public  just  approving  what 

In   private    I    detest. 

"A  round  of  duties  I  go  through 

As  children  would  a  task; 
Best  pleased  when  least  I  can  make  do, 

Though  for  more  work  I  ask. 

"My  policy  is  to  appear 

What  really  I  am  not; 
This  valuable  cloak  I  wear, 

I  for  that  purpose  got. 

"The  Sabbath  is  no  more  to  me 

Than  any  other  day; 
It  desecrated  I  can   see, 

It  others  hallow  may. 

"But  if  I  to  the  sermon  go, 

I  have  a  saint-like  air; 
A  preacher  orthodox  I  know 

As  well  as  any  there. 

"The  supper  comes,  perfidious  wretch, 

The  children's  bread  I  take; 
My  hand  forth  for  the  symbols  stretch, 

And  all  my  vows  soon  break. 

[159] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

"My  measures  stinted  are  in  size, 
My  weights   are   somewhat   light, 

Yet  who  for  honesty  more  cries 
Than  does  the  hypocrite. 

"My  wares  perhaps  than  others  worse, 

For  better  I  would  sell, 
And  if  I'm  doubted  I  can  curse 

And  lies  by  dozens  tell. 

"My  foreman  is  a  clever  lad 

Called  inconsistency; 
Of  this  trustworthy  I  am  glad  — 

He  squares  the  yards  for  me. 

"Without  his  aid  I  never  could 

My  business  half  get  through; 
By  him  I'm  always  understood, 

And  while  he  lives  I'll  do. 

"The  land  of  uprightness  to  my 

Advantage  I  can  turn, 
For  being  a  freebooter,  I 

Can  anywhere  sojourn. 

"Too  crafty  to  be  often  catched, 

Expediency  my  rule; 
Could  any  Satan  overmatch, 

I'm  sure  I'd  him  befool. 

"To  serve  a  master  I  profess, 

Whom  I  at  any  time 
Would  sell  for  silver,  gold  or  less, 

And  deem  it  little  crime. 

"A  penny  cheat  is  profit  small, 

But  when  I  can  get  more 
I  conscience  make  of  taking  all 

I  can  off  rich  and  poor. 

"For  conscience  like  my  creed  is  wide; 

It  would  not  do  for  me 
To  have  it  up  to  scruples  tied  — 

It  must   expansive   be. 

"To  speak  the  truth  I  feats  achieve, 
Might  make  the  devil  blush; 

[160] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


The  needy  seeming  to  relieve, 
I  can  contrive  to  crush. 

"The  fatherless  and  widow,  too, 

An  easy  prey  I  find; 
Pretending   sympathy   I   do 

Their  face  in  friendship  grind. 

"I  can  be  anything  but  good, 

Do  anything  but  right; 
Yet  were  it  not  one  thing  I  would 

Indeed  be  happy  quite. 

"In  general,  though  stout,  my  heart 
Is  sometimes  weak  through  fear, 

Lest  God  at  last  should  make  me  smart 
For   all   my   doings   here." 

Thus  spake  this  hollow-hearted  man, 

A  fiend  in  human  form; 
And  evidently  now  began 

To   dread  a  coming  storm. 

He  stopped  as  if  by  conscience  stung, 
A  hand  him  something  threw, 

Which  having  swallowed  up  he  sprung 
And  on  his  cloak  he  drew. 

And  who  the  hypocrite  would  known, 

He  was  so  altered  then; 
His  whole  exterior  saint-like  grown, 

He  was  prepared  again 

His  former  business  to  pursue, 

Whatever  it  might  cost, 
Which  to  have  followed  he  shall  rue 

When  soul  and  all  is  lost. 

He  went  forth  as  a  demon  would, 

And  soon  was  out  of  sight; 
And  if  his  story  would  do  good 

To   any  hypocrite, 

My  duty  is  it  to  rehearse 

Whatever  others  say; 
I  know  they  can  despise  my  verse, 

But  God  approve  it  may. 

[161] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


And  if  a  quiver  in  His  Hand 
My  humble  verse  should  be, 

I  think  I  patiently  could  stand 
Dissected  it  to  see. 

More  faults  than  properties,  perchance, 

Would  unto  it  belong; 
But  after  all  it's  not  romance, 

For  truth  runs  through  my  song. 

Our  neighbor's  house  if  seen  on  fire, 

The  inmates  fast  asleep, 
To  save  their  lives  it  would  require 

That  we  hallooing  keep. 

And  of  their  danger  once  aware, 

I  do  not  think  there  would 
Be  one  inclined  to  perish  there 

Because  the  call  was   rude. 

Life's  by  most  people  prized  too  high 
The  warning  thus  to   slight, 

And  therefore  to  escape  they'd  try 
While  yet  escape  they  might. 

With  learning,  though  unfit  to  charm, 

It  still  would  be  so  much, 
If  we  by  giving  the  alarm 

One  sinner's  heart  could  touch. 

I  need  not  say  I  did  not  get 

The   learning   I   desired; 
And  having  sore  affliction  met, 

Hope  has  there,  too,  expired. 

Few  circumstanced  as  I  have  been 

To  write  at  all  would  try; 
But  in  my  own  way  what  I've  seen 

I  just  would  testify. 

And  with  my  God  the  issue  leave, 

Who  can  make  order  grow 
Where  we  confusion  but  perceive, 

That  He  is  God  to  show. 


[162] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


True  Nobility 

Not  still  the  nobles  of  the  earth 
Are  counted  nobles  in  God's  view, 

Who  reckons  but  of  noble  birth 

Those  whom  His  Spirit  doth  renew. 

And  honest  worth,  wherever  found, 
No  matter  whether  rich  or  poor, 

Shall  be,  and  only  be,  renowned, 

Of  this  God's  Word  doth  us  assure. 

Then  not  the  person  of  the  rich, 

Because  they're  rich  will  God  accept; 

But  though  like  Job  plunged  in  the  ditch, 
And  clean  of  earthly  comforts  swept, 

The  Christian  can  look  up  and  say, 
Accepted  still  in  the  beloved, 

I  have  a  portion  won't  decay, 

Though  every  movable's  removed. 

He  looks  upon  this  present  scene 

Of  necessary  toil  and  pain, 
As  lying  bliss,  and  those  between 

Who  shall  with  Christ  forever  reign. 

And  he  is  rich  though  he  may  not 

Be  master  even  of  a  cent; 
God  having  for  his  portion  got, 

Therewith  his  soul  is  well  content. 

A  weight  of  glory  him  awaits, 

And  though  privation  called  to  bear, 

This   hope  his  soul  invigorates, 
That  his  redemption  draweth  near. 

I   neither  covet  wealth  nor  praise, 
But  would  of  conscience  be  approved, 

The  Lord  in  serving  all  my  days 
And  then  to  glory  be  removed. 

And  though  I  get  no  other  boon 
Than  this,  it  is  enough  to  know 

That  I  shall  serve  above  as  soon 
As  I  have  ceased  to  serve  below. 

[163] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


To  M.  S. 

Sister  in  Christ  you  may  believe 
I'm   thinking   oft   of   you, 

And  much  my  mind  it  would  relieve 
If  how  you  were  I  knew. 

Though  friendship  I'm  unfit  to  prove 

By  going  you  to  see, 
In  fancy  since  you  did  remove 

I  oft  have  been  with  thee. 

I  think  I  see  your  cottage  neat, 
And  all  things  tidy  there; 

When  you  approach  the  Mercy  Seat, 
Remember  me  in  prayer. 

My  sympathy  is  with  you  still, 
As  your's  hath  been  with  me, 

And  God  I  hope  protect  you  will 
And   to   you  gracious   be. 

Is't  well  with  you?    I  know  it  is 

If  Christ  be  all  to  you; 
And  what  a  mercy  to  be  His, 

Who  faithful  is  and  true. 

A  Bethel  of  your  cottage  make, 
Where  God  you'll  daily  serve, 

And  be  assured  He  won't  forsake, 
But  keep  and  you  preserve. 

His  yoke  is  easy  and  I'm  sure 
You  know  His  burden's  light, 

And  if  we  to  the  end  endure, 
We'll  walk  with  Him  in  white. 

Life  is  but  short  however  spent, 
Then  let  us  well  it  spend, 

And  be  with  everything  content 
Which  God  is  pleased  to  send. 

I  hope  you'll  come  to  see  me  soon 

As  you  are  fit  to  walk; 
Come  early  in  an  afternoon, 

That  we'll  have  time  to  talk. 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


For  godly  conversation  is 

Like  balm,  my  friend,  to  me; 

A  few  more  trials  and  in  bliss 
I  hope  we'll  meeting  be. 

God's  ways  to  us  may  strange  appear, 
But  still  He  does  what's  best; 

If  His  our  portion  is  not  here, 
For  us  remains  a  rest. 

For  every  grief  we  shall  forget 
Which  now  may  rend  the  heart; 

And  in  that  happy  place  once  met, 
We   nevermore   shall  part. 

Then  hope  of  better  things  to  come 
Should  banish  anxious  care; 

In  bliss  if  we're  to  have  a  home, 
We'll  certainly  come  there. 

Our  duty  is  to  seek  God's  Face, 
And  by  our  walk  to  prove 

That  He  hath  made  us  by  His  Grace 
Partakers  of  His  Love. 

And  now  in  Christ,  my  sister  dear, 
These  lines  to  you  I  send; 

However  poor  they  may  appear, 
Are  friendship  to  a  friend. 

And  well  I  know  that  you  as  such 
Accept  them  will  from  me, 

About  you  I've  been  thinking  much 
And  would  you  like  to  see. 


No  Cause  to  Murmur 

My  consolations  would  be   small 

Indeed,  if  I  did  not  believe 
That  God  I  can  my  Father  call, 

From  Whom  all  good  things  I  receive. 

Yes,  'tis  a  source  of  joy  to  me, 
When  sad  I  would  be  otherwise, 

That  I  can  go  my  God  to  Thee 
When  grief  upon  me  heavy  lies. 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Hearts  that's  susceptible  will  feel, 
When  ones  less  sensitive  will  not, 

And  feels  though  striving  to  conceal 
The  bitter  wound  they  may  have  got. 

But  who  could  wish  their  feelings  dead 
Because  at  times  they  may  be  tried 

By  what  some  party  may  have  said, 
Whose  tongue  with  rancor  is  supplied. 

The  serpent's  nature  is  to  bite, 

Infusing  poison  if  it  can; 
In  wounding  others  who  delight, 

Act  only  on  the  serpent's  plan. 

Some  people  think  that  they  may  use 

Their  tongues  as  they  think  proper  may, 

And  so  one  time  they  man  abuse, 

At  others  hard  things  'gainst  God  say. 

And  hardened   must  those  creatures  be 
Who  the  Creator  would  arraign, 

Because  from  them  withhold  may  He 
What's  foremost  in  both  heart  and  brain. 

When  Providence  their  views  doth  mar, 

They  only  to  rebellion  fly, 
As  if  they  thought  they  could  a  war 

Maintaining  be  'gainst  the  Most  High. 

Too  oft  complaints,  though  indirect, 
Among  professors  may  be  heard, 

From  whom  we  better  might  expect, 
Because  for  God  they  have  declared. 

My  soul  is  weary  of  complaints 

Which  has  'gainst   Providence  been   made, 
And  made,  too,  by  professing  saints, 

As  if  to  murmur  was  their  trade. 

And  here  I  acknowledge  would 

What  the  heart-searching  God  doth  know, 
That  I  would  never  if  I  could 

Far  with  repining  people  go, 

Because  their  converse  tends  to  chill 
Instead  of  animate  the  soul, 

[166] 


CLOUDS       AND       SUNSHINE 


And  they  are  drawing  backward  still 
As  if  behind  them  was  the  goal. 

Repining  people  will  repine, 

And  that  for  every  trifle,  too; 
With  gall  they  mixed  must  have  their  wine, 

Else  it  for  them  would  never  do. 

In  fact  they  discontent  will  be 

When  they  no  cause  have  to  be  so; 

They  others'  mercies  well  can  see, 
But  to  observe  their  own  are  slow. 

The  reason  of  their  discontent 
To  ask  them  if  you  make  so  bold, 

I  certain  am  you  will  repent 
Before  their  story  half  is  told. 

A  list  of  sundries  you  will  get, 

Which  patience  never  would  record, 

Because  it  never  knew  to  fret, 
Its  work  is  waiting  on  the  Lord. 

The  times,  the  weather  and  the  crops 
Are  subjects,  scarce  allowed  to  cool, 

Though  oft  before  the  speaker  stops 
The  audience  of  disgust  is  full. 

To  their  pipe  if  we  cannot  dance, 
To  them  we  but  barbarians  seem; 

No  argument  we  can  advance 

Can  put  them  off  their  favorite  theme. 

Their  troubles  they  exaggerate  — 

At  least  they  make  them  nothing  less, 

As  if  it  pleased  them  to  relate 

Naught  but  real  or  supposed  distress. 

With  them  we  cannot  sympathize; 

To   sympathize,   however   fain, 
Unless  we  could  look  through  their  eyes 

And  matters  to  their  taste  explain. 

Few  blighted  prospects  have  not  had, 

Or  bitter  disappointment  met, 
And  to  their  troubles  they  but  add 

Whose   disposition  is  to   fret. 

[167] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Has  God  no  right,  do  they  suppose, 
What  He  has  given  for  to  take? 

I  think  such  clamor  plainly  shows 
They  too  much  of  the  creature  make, 

To  the  neglect  of  Him  Who  sends 
The  smallest  mercy  man  enjoys; 

Yet  man  with  Him  the  pass  contends 
As  if  his  comfort  God  destroys. 

And  let  such  murmur,  if  they  must, 
For  I  have  other  work  to  do; 

For  if  God  worthy  is  of  trust, 
He  worthy  is  of  glory,  too. 

So  many  mercies  He  gives  me, 
That  if  not  to  His  Goodness  blind, 

I  must  acknowledge  Him  to  be 
To  an  unworthy  creature  kind. 

And  I'm  convinced,  despair  who  will, 
And  Providence  without  cause  blame, 

That  I  have  cause  and  good  cause,  still 
My  God,  to  glorify  Thy  Name. 


A  Visit  from  My  Pastor 

Though  troubles  many  I  have  met, 
I  consolations  many  get 

Of  which  my  soul  is  glad; 
And  these  I  reckon  sunny  spots 
That  are  reserved  for  crooked  lots, 

That  all  may  not  be  sad. 

Our  mercies  are  good,  better,  best, 
For  some  are  greater  than  the  rest; 

Nor  do  I  think  the  least 
Is  godly  conversation,  when 
God  with  affliction  visits,  then 

It  ought  to  be  a  feast. 

When  scripture  I  can  get  explained, 
Thereby  I'm  highly  entertained, 

To  church  who  cannot  go; 
And  when  I  cannot  get  this  meat, 
Is  godly  conversation  sweet, 

I  feel  it  to  be  so. 

[168] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Our  pastor  called  the  other  day, 
And  pleasant  things  to  me  did  say, 

My  spirit  which  renewed. 
O  that  he  oft  might  call  again, 
Some  scripture  portion  to  explain, 

Or  tell  me  something  good; 

For  I  such  visits  do  regard, 

And  still  shall,  as  helps  Heavenward, 

And  may  my  helpers  be, 
Whoever  in  whatever  place, 
My  God  supported  by  Thy  Grace, 

And  so  kept  safe  by  Thee. 

O  spare  our  pastor  that  he  may 
Christ's  banner  'mong  us  long  display. 

It  seems  Thou  hast  him  sent, 
For  in  his  work  he  pleasure  takes 
And  conscience  of  his  duty  makes 

On  serving  Thee  he's  bent. 

His  talents  if  for  Thee  employed 
A  mercy  in  him  we've  enjoyed, 

And  are  enjoying  still; 
And  may  the  flock  for  which  he  cares 
His  hand  still  strengthen  with  their  prayers, 

And  then  both  prosper  will. 

And  though  I  never  shall  be  fit 
Under  his  ministry  to  sit, 

I  much  obliged  would  be 
If  he  his  visits  could  repeat 
And  still  to  me  bring  something  sweet, 

Supplied,   my   God,   by  Thee. 


To  a  Linnet 

There  is  a  linnet's  pleasant  voice, 
Enough  to  make  one's  heart  rejoice  — 

At  least  it  doth  make  mine; 
For  I  can  trace  in  every  note 
Sent  forth  from  its  melodious  throat 

A   power   that's    divine. 

And  whence,  sweet  Linnet,  art  thou  come? 
O  is  it  from  my  old  loved  home 

[169] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Thou'rt  come  to  sing  to  me, 
Who  of  affliction  am  a  child, 
And  also  am  from  home  exiled, 

Sweet  Linnet,  can  it  be? 

O  can  it  be  thou  art  come  here 

With  thy  sweet  song  my  heart  to  cheer, 

The  songsters  from  among? 
If  so,  go  tell  the  Linnet  race 
That  such  a  one  is  in  this  place 

And  fain  would  hear  their  song; 

Yes,  fain  I  as  in  other  days 
Would  listen  to  the  Linnet's  lays, 

Go    then    thy   fellows   bring. 
Tell  them  how  happy  I  would  be 
The  pretty  linnets  for  to  see, 

And  also  hear  them  sing. 

Go,  go  sweet  bird,  but  come  again, 
Let  naught  to  me  thy  flight  detain; 

Go,  go,  nor  tarry  long, 
But  bring  thy  fellows  with  thee  here, 
That  they  once  more  my  heart  may  cheer 

With   their  delightful  song. 

Soon  shall  the  singing  time  be  o'er, 
When  thou  wilt  singing  be  no  more  — 

Sing  then  my  little  friend 
While  doth  the  singing  season  last, 
For  very  soon  it  shall  be  past 

And  then  thy  song  must  end. 

As  singing  seasons  come  and  go, 
So  do  our  pleasures  ebb  and  flow; 

But  when,  when  shall  it  be 
That  I  shall  lift  my  voice  among 
The  ransomed  of  the  Lord  in  song, 

And   pleasures   lasting   see? 

Here  like  a  bird,  new  caged,  am  I; 
Too  dull  to  sing,  nor  can  it  fly, 

Useless  seems  voice  and  wing; 
Disease  of  body  when  combined, 
As  oft  'tis  with  an  ill-tuned  mind, 

'Tis  hard  I  find  to  sing. 


[ 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


In  Everything  Give  Thanks 

From  day  to  day,  from  week  to  week, 

In  weakness  I  lie  here; 
I  might  have  said,  from  month  to  month, 

Yea,   and  from  year  to  year. 

Yet  I  for  days,  and  weeks,  and  months, 

And  years  that's  now  past, 
Have  reason  great  to  give  God  thanks, 

Who  hither  brought  me  hast. 

I  thank  Him  for  my  strength,  reduced 

And  feeble  as  it  is, 
For  He  might  well  have  left  me  none, 

Who  brought  it  hath  to  this. 

I  thank  Him  for  my  life  yet  spared, 
For  reason,  means  and  grace; 

And  grace  being  of  my  mercies  chief, 
In  thanks  should  have  first  place. 

I  thank  Him  for  a  Gospel  preached, 

The  Gospel  rich  and  free, 
And  ministers,  who  in  His  Name 

Beseech  from  sin  to  flee. 

I  thank  Him  for  His  Providence, 

I  love  and  for  it  wait; 
It  keeps  the  promise  still  in  view, 

In  matters   small  and  great. 

I  thank  Him  for  relations  dear, 

Brothers  and  sisters  kind; 
However  circumstanced,  I  should 

To  praising  be  inclined. 

I  thank  Him  for  those  friends  in  Christ, 

Though  they  are  few  I  own, 
Who  take  an  interest  in  me, 

But  better  few  than  none. 

Yes,  I  would  thank  Him  for  those  friends 

Who  with  me  sympathize; 
Whose  friendship  I  am  glad  to  say, 

Not  in  pretension  lies. 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


A  cup  of  water  cold  of  God 

Shall  not  forgotten  be, 
If  given  in  His  Name  forgot, 

Then  can  be  sympathy. 

I've  many  things  to  thank  Him  for, 

Too  numerous  to  name; 
Lord  never  let  my  soul  forget, 

Or  loose  in  Thee  her  claim. 

And  of  my  life  through  what's  to  come, 

Still  mercy  Lord  give  me, 
And  when  Thy  mercies  I  recount, 

I'll  give  the  praise  to  Thee. 


The  Church  and  Churchyard 

Yonder  the  church  may  through  the  trees  be 

seen; 

She  stands  as  if  inviting  sinners  in, 
That   they  may  learn  how  wicked  they  have 

been, 
And  also  how  they  may  get  rid  of  sin. 

The  Gospel  in  its  purity's  there  preached; 

There  sinners  are  invited  while  they  may  — 
Invited,  did  I  say?  they're  beseeched 

To  turn  to  Christ  while  it  is  called  today. 

Around  her  are  the  chambers  of  the  dead, 
Whose  day  of  grace  forever  is  gone  by; 

Fair  opportunity  from  them  is  fled, 

Repentance  there   lifts  not  her  tear-washed 
eye. 

The  church  and  grave  alternate  ope  me  see; 

Oh!  that  them  to  improve  we  were  disposed, 
For  very  soon  both  church  and  grave  shall  be 

One  to  us,  and  the  other  round  us,  closed. 


[172] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

On  Being  Presented  With  My 
Father's  Likeness 

I  in  your  picture  recognize 

My  father's  likeness  true; 
The  bushy  hair,  the  hazel  eye, 

The  cheeks  of  rosy  hue; 

The  spacious  brow,  the  lips  compressed, 

The  well-known  dimple  chin, 
And  nose  of  scents,  that  acute  test 

Where  God  first  breathed  life  in. 

But  need  I  say,  that  Time's  footprints 

I  easily  can  trace, 
Which  of  mortality  gives  hints 

Upon  my  father's  face. 


For  death  to  us  is  just  as  sure 
As  it  to  those  hath  been; 

Eternal  life  would  we  secure, 
Let  Jesus  be  our  screen, 

Not  only  from  impending  wrath, 

But  from  deceitful  sin; 
Earth  we  must  overcome  by  faith, 

If  we  would  Heaven  win. 

That  you  and  I  in  bliss  may  meet 
Has  often  been  my  prayer, 

It  to  a  daughter  would  be  sweet 
To  meet  her  father  there. 


To  Miss  J.  J. 

Dear  friend,  I  would  ask  you,  why  are  you  so  sad? 
Had  you  but  one  mercy  you  ought  to  be  glad; 

Give  up  melancholy  and  half  of  your  grief 

You'll  find  will  have  left  you;  I  mean  to  be  brief, 

For  a  lengthened  discourse  would  but  only  augment 
What  I  need  not  increase,  if  I  cannot  prevent; 

[173] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Still  fain  I  would  leave  you  the  better  for  this, 
And  a  short  recipe  for  contentment  it  is: 

Look  at  your  deservings  as  left  by  the  fall  — 
To  mind,  then  in  order  your  mercies  recall, 

And  God  is  forbearing  I  think  you  will  see; 
This  way  of  comparing  is  useful  to  me, 

And  would  be  to  you  if  you  would  it  but  try, 
For  friend  you  have  mercies  you  cannot  deny  — 

Your  mercies  are  many  I  have  not  a  doubt, 

But  I  leave  them  just  now  for  yourself  to  make  out; 

Around  you  they'll  cluster,  all  willing  to  cheer, 
And  when  you  have  found  them,  thank  God  you're 
still   here, 

For  if  to  be  happy  right  measures  you  take, 
You  yet  may  be  happy,  grace  happy  can  make. 

You  insist  that  you're  lonesome,  I  know  that  you 

are, 
But  better  be  that  than  with  company  jar. 

Your  troubles  are  trying,  I  willingly  own, 
But  there  are  worse  trials  than  living  alone; 

You  know  there  are  many  to  misery  wed, 

And  then  there  are  widows  who  children  have  dead; 

But  you  are  no  widow,  no  children  you've  lost, 
And   yet   on   life's   ocean   your   barque   hath  been 
tossed. 

We  all  have  our  trials  in  some  way  while  here, 
But  friend  there's  a  Pilot  which  safely  can  steer 

Your  barque  to  the  harbor  of  peace  and  of  rest; 
Oh!   try    Christ   and   trust   Him,   and   you    shall   be 
blest. 


[174] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


My  Song 


Who  will  may  sing  of  gold, 
Who  will  of  earthly  fame; 

But  may  I  still  be  bold 
To  sing  of  Jesus  name. 

How  fair  is  my  beloved, 
How  ruddy  and  how  white; 

And  He  hath  far  removed 
My  sins  out  of  His  sight. 

Times  things  on  praise  lay  claim, 
Though  they're  as  sounding  brass; 

But  of  my  song  the  theme 
Not   so   away   shall   pass. 

The  subject  of  my  song 

Forever  shall  remain; 
Who  sings  of  else  among 

Mankind   shall   sing  in  vain. 

Oh!  that  my  soul  for  song 
In  tune  I  still  could  keep; 

But  sin  oft  puts  it  wrong, 
For  which  my  grief  is  deep. 

0  that  I  was  all  song, 
Then  I  would  sing  my  lays 

To  Him,  Who  when  it's  wrong, 
Can  right  the  soul  for  praise. 

But  imperfection  here 
Makes  us  we  cannot  sing, 

With  knowledge  full  and  clear, 
The  praises  of  our  King. 

1  hope  the  time  shall  come 
That  I  shall  better  sing, 

When  settled  in  my  home, 
In  presence   of  my   King. 

Where  of  the  ransomed  throng, 

The  burden  is  to  Him 
Of  their  united  song, 

Who  died  them  to  redeem. 

[175] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


And  if  I  but  get  there, 

None  shall  more  reason  have 

His  glory  to  declare, 

Who  died  mankind  to  save. 

If  God  loves  me  at  all, 

He'll  do  so  to  the  end; 
And  take  me  where  I  shall 

With  saints'  notes  mine  still  blend. 

And  shall  I  join  the  throng 

Before  the  great  I  Am, 
To  sing  the  still  new  song 

Of   Moses   and   the    Lamb? 


By  Whom  Shall  I  Stand  Before  God 

To  Bunyan's  weapon  called  "All  prayer," 
In  straights  let  me  give  trial  fair. 

It  shall  my  soul  waft  to  God's  Throne 
When  I  am  weary  and  alone. 

It  is  a  weapon  sharp  and  good, 
And  is  not  easily  withstood. 

God  hath  it  constituted  so 
When  unto  Him  by  it  we  go, 

In  faith  and  deep  humility, 

Our  suit  not  overlooked  shall  be. 

By  whom  shall  I  approach  unto 
The  God  with  Whom  I  have  to  do? 

By  sin  I  am  as  black  as  night, 
And  must  be  in  His  holy  sight 

A  loathsome  and  corrupted  mass, 
Which  His  strict  justice  cannot  pass. 

I  in  His  presence  cannot  stand 
Because  my  soul  is  naked,  and 

The  more  I  try  to  hide  my  sore, 
Myself  I  do  expose  the  more. 

[176] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


For  at  the  best  my  righteousness 
Is  rags,  a  mean  and  filthy  dress, 

Which   doth  betoken  poverty 
And  guilt  in  wretched,  helpless  me. 

Guilty  of  what?  why,  Adam's  fall 
Did  make  his  children  guilty  all; 

Guilty  they  are  and  less  can't  be 
Than  Adam,  who  ate  of  the  tree. 

The  covenant  of  works  we  broke 

In  him,  then  who  could  keep  the  stroke 

Of  justice  from  our  guilty  head, 
When  Adam's  innocence  was  fled? 

Man's  state  then  truly  wretched  was, 
And  nothing  but  himself  the  cause. 

No  one  his  brother  could  redeem, 
All  helpless  was  in  the  extreme; 

No  eye  was  found  to  pity  men, 

No  hand  to  save  from  justice;  when 

God,  who  so  loved  the  human  race  — 
Though  plunged  in  guilt  and  deep  disgrace 

In  His  eternal  council  planned 
One  that  was  qualified  to  stand 

In  the  wide  breach  which  sin  had  made, 
To  bring  back  sheep  who  far  had  strayed. 

He  in  the  person  of  His  Son, 

A  Saviour  sent,  else  was  undone 

The  human  family  at  large; 
And  He  did  willingly  discharge 

The  debt  we  did  to  justice  owe, 

And  hence  God's  Love  to  us  doth  flow. 

Eternal  Love,  could  I  but  sing 

How  Thou  a  Prophet,  Priest  and  King, 

[177] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Provided  hast  for  worthless  me, 
That  all  my  wants,  respectively, 

Might  be  supplied;  O  matchless  Love! 
I  shall  Thee  oetter  know  above. 

But  even  there  Thou  still  shalt  be 
A  fathomless,  unoounded  sea; 

For  finite  knowledge  never  can 
Pretend  inhnity  to  span. 

But  all,  enough  shall  know  and  see 
To  make  eacn  happy  perfectly; 

But  even  now  it  gives  relief 

Unto  the  saints  through  all  their  grief, 

That  God  so  resteth  in  His  Love, 
That  naught   from  them   it   can  remove. 

Christ  doth  as  Mediator  stand, 

On  God  and  man  to  lay  His  Hand; 

Justice  well  pleased  through  Him  doth  look 
On  every  step  which  mercy  took 

To  save,  and  ransomed  man  his  eyes 
Lifts  up  and  Abba,  Father,  cries. 

It  is,  it  is  through  Christ  alone 
I  may  approach  unto  Thy  Throne. 

Christ  is  the  way  of  life  'tis  clear, 
Then  O  my  soul  haste  to  draw  near 

To  God,  in  that  sweet  meeting  place 
Where  He  doth  willingly  embrace 

The  sinner,  who,  washed  from  his  sin, 
To  live  a  new  life  doth  begin. 

And  Oh!  is  God  my  Father  still? 
Then  as  a  child  is  all  my  will 

Subject  O  Holy  God  to  Thine, 
If  not,  thereto  my  heart  incline. 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


O  God,  I  am  oppressed  you  see, 
But  do  Thou  undertake  for  me, 

And  though  my  lot  be  trials  here, 
In  patience  let  me  persevere, 

Through  evil  and  through  good  report, 
Like  to  a  dutiful  consort, 

Who  leans  upon  her  husband's  arm, 
Convinced  he'll  her  protect  from  harm. 

So  would  I  on  Thee,  Lord,  depend, 
And  trust  Thee  as  my  dearest  friend; 

Earth  has  no  wealth  to  offer  me, 
For  all  my  riches  lie  in  Thee. 

And  having  Thee  I  do  possess 
All  that  is  worthy,  I  confess. 

Has  Thy  rich  grace  my  sins  forgiven, 
And  made  me  lawful  heir  to  Heaven? 

Then  this  is  wealth  beyond  compare, 
For  such  a  worthless  one  to  share. 

Three  things  I  would  be  much  inclined 
Not  to  let  slip  out  of  my  mind, 

Because  they  have  a  tendency 
To  cultivate  humility; 

And  they  are  these  what  I  once  was 
E'er  interested  in  Christ's  cause; 

And  what  I'm  now,  a  pilgrim  bound, 
Unto  Canaan's  happy  ground; 

And  what  I  do  hope  yet  to  be 
When  clothed  with  immortality. 

The  first  state  I  was  born  in, 
A  slave  to  Satan  and  to  sin. 

Grace  in  the  second  did  reclaim 
Me  from  the  first  and  thus  I  came 


[179] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


The  third  by  faith's  strong  eye  to  see 
Assuredly  laid  up  for  me 

In  that  most  holy,  happy  place, 
Where  glory  shall  supplant  fair  grace. 


Preservation  in  Sleep 

Lord,  for  the  watch  which  Thou  dost  keep 

Around  me,   I   thank  Thee, 
And  for  the  calm  unbroken  sleep 

Which  Thou  hast  given  me. 

Art  Thou  not  as  a  wall  of  fire 
Round  those  that  in  Thee  trust? 

To  be  protected  I  desire, 
And  Thou  protect  me  must. 

If  I  protected  am  at  all, 

Who  can  protect  but  Thee? 
Though  human  aid  with  me  was  small, 

In  safety  Thou'st  kept  me. 

The  moonbeams  fell  so  calm,  so  clear, 

Last  night  around  my  cot, 
They  seemed  to  say:    "Lone  one  don't  fear, 

God  will  forsake  you  not. 

"Let  apprehensions  not  alarm 

Thee,  God  thy  Guard  doth  stand; 

He'll  suffer  none  to  do  thee  harm, 
But  keep  thee  with   His  Hand. 

"From  His  Eye  darkness  can  hide  none; 

Night  is  with  Him  as  day; 
Then  trust  in  Him,  defenseless  one, 

When  did  He  trust  betray?" 

O  Lord  I  thank  Thee  for  the  care 
Which  Thou  for  me  hast  shown; 

Of  safety  I  need  not  despair, 
Though  human  help  be  flown. 

Praise  may  I  ever  give  to  Thee, 
Who  will  not  me  forsake; 

[180] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

Whose  mercy  doth  encompass  me, 
Both  when  I  sleep  and  wake. 

I  thank  Thee  that  I  am  alive 

To  see  this  morning's  sun; 
To  serve  Thee  may  I  better  strive 

This  day  than  e'er  I've  done. 

I  thank  Thee,  Lord,  that  I  in  sleep 

Have  not  been  sent  to  hell; 
A  gracious  watch  around  me  keep, 

And  groundless  fears  dispell. 

In  What  Do  I  Joy 

'Tis  not  in  wealth,  for  I  do  know 

That  I  have  not  possessed, 
Nor  could  it  real  joy  bestow  — 

Whom   hath   it   truly  blest? 

'Tis  not  in  learning,  for  of  that 

But  little  to  me  fell, 
Though  my  desire  if  I  had  got, 

I  would  been  learned  well. 

But  learning  puffeth  up  with  pride, 

And  God  perhaps  did  see 
It  good  this  thing  from  me  to  hide, 

Lest   I   should  puffed  up  be. 

'Tis  not  in  strength  of  mine  that's  fled, 

For  I  am  weak  become; 
Yes,  weakness  hath  my  frame  o'erspread, 

Yet  still  I  joy  have  some. 

And  can  it  be  that  I  in  friends 
Joy's   resting  place   would   make? 

No,  for  whose  joy  on  man  depends, 
Will  find  'twill  them  forsake. 

But  my  joy  is  a  lasting  joy, 

In  God  it  centered  is; 
Nor  can  my  enemies  destroy 

Or  cheat  me  out  of  this. 

My  joy's  in  God,  and  I'll  rejoice 
Forever  in  the  same; 

[181] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Cease  not  my  soul  to  lift  your  voice 
To  praise  His  Holy  Name, 

Who  wealth  and  learning  is  to  me, 
And  strength  and  all  I  need; 

Now  reader  I   appeal  to  you, 
What  joy  can  mine  exceed? 


Change  of  Places 


Farewell  sweet  bedroom,  which  for  me 

Provided   was   with   care; 
For  mine  thou  art  no  more  to  be, 

I  must  seek  one  elsewhere. 

Here  I  have  suffered,  praised  and  prayed, 
Here  I  have  hoped  and  feared, 

Here  God  hath  my  affliction  weighed, 
Here  grace  my  heart  hath  cheered. 

Here  I  have  had  an  inward  peace, 
Which  wealth  surpasseth  far; 

They  cannot  love  its  lovely  face, 
Its  beauty  who  can  mar? 

Christ   left  a  legacy  to   those 

His   followers   who   be; 
Its  peace  His  Testament  still  shows, 

And   I'm   a  legatee. 

And  with  this  peace,  though  I  have  not 

Whereon  my  foot  to  set, 
I  have  a  worthy  something  got, 

Which  gold  can  never  get. 

Though  earthly  comforts  one  by  one 

Or  all  together  go, 
Peace  in  my  spirit  is  a  sun 

That  setting  cannot  know. 

God's  Peace  is  more  to  me  than  all 

The  comforts  I  can  lose, 
Their  portion  never  can  be  small 

Whom  God  for  His  did  choose. 

Without  a  grudge  this  sweet  room  I 
Can  leave,  but  not  a  tear; 

[182] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


If  well  enough  it  would  not  try 
Me  much  to  go  from  here. 

But  God  is  everywhere  I  know, 

And  He  can  smooth  my  way; 
And  if  it  is  His  will  I'll  go, 

For  wherefore  should  I  stay? 

Our  duty  is  to  be  resigned, 

However  matters  be; 
Wherever  I  a  home  may  find, 

Still  God's  the  same  to  me. 

Then  I  should  troubled  be  for  naught, 

Whatever  can  befall, 
If  I'm  through  tribulation  brought, 

Beyond  the  reach  of  thrall. 

For  God's  my  Strength,  my  Rock,  my  Rest, 

However  matters  go; 
In  Christ  all  good  things  are  possessed, 

And  He  is  mine  I  know. 

It  matters  little  whether  I 

This  comfort  have  or  not; 
If  God's  my  refuge,  bye  and  bye 

Such  things  will  be  forgot. 

And  if  with  God  the  future  I 

Could  confidently  leave, 
My  bedroom  I  could  bid  goodbye, 

And  all  for  good  receive. 

This  notwithstanding,  I  could  make 

A  choice  of  places  still, 
Yet  wherefore  choose  if  that  would  shake 

Submission  to  God's  Will? 

God's  presence  makes  the  desert  sweet, 

His  Goodness  constant  flows; 
And  He'll  provide  a  safe  retreat, 

My  every  want  Who  knows. 

But  who  shall  pray  where  I  have  prayed, 

And  sleep  where  I  have  slept, 
Or  sing  where  God  me  sing  hath  made, 

Or  weep  where  I  have  wept? 

[183] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


I  cannot  tell,  nor  need  I  care 

Much  who  shall  have  it  next; 
But  if  not  made  a  place  of  prayer, 

For  that  I  would  be  vexed. 

Let  those  who  may  another  day 

This  bedroom   occupy, 
Remember  though  I  am  away, 

My  God  is  still  close  by. 

And  in  my  God  they  may  confide 

And  not  confounded  be; 
If  they  believe  in  Christ  who  died, 

They'll  His  Salvation  see. 

My  bedroom  was  a  sacred  place, 

A  Bethel  it  has  been, 
Where  I  have  sought  and  found  God's  Face, 

And  much  that's  precious  seen. 

But  henceforth  mine  no  more  to  be, 

And  bedroom  be  it  so; 
If  God's  a  sanctuary  to  me, 

I  willingly  can  go. 

Farewell,  sweet  bedroom,   once   again 

Farewell,  farewell  to  thee; 
I  know  thou  wert  not  made  in  vain, 

Though  mine  no  more  to  be. 

For  walls  and  ceiling  witness  here, 

As  well  they  witness  can, 
I  leave  you  with  a  conscience  clear 

Towards  both   God  and  man. 


Postscript 


The  step  is  taken,  I  have  lost 
My  much  loved  bedroom  now; 

My  barque  is  to  this  harbor  tost, 
Not  wrecked  as  some  allow. 

For  here  I  can  testify  — 

And  well  He  knows  it  true  — 

Who  as  the  apple  of  His  Eye 
Hath  kept.      I  never  rue 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


My  coming,  for  with  me  I'm  sure 
God  hath  His  angels  sent, 

And  with  God  and  a  conscience  pure 
I  may  be  well  content. 

If  Jonah  loves  his  gourd  too  much, 

A  worm  is  prepared; 
To  smite  it  I've  had  many  such, 

And  all  alike  have  fared. 

But  I  have  something  still  beyond 
The  reach  of  chance  or  change, 

Of  which  I  cannot  be  too  fond; 
My  God,  Thy  ways  are  strange. 

Most  wonderful  Thy  Love  hath  been 
To  me  through  trials  sore; 

Much  of  Thy  goodness  I  have  seen, 
And  Thou  hast  promised  more. 

Thy  Mercies  never  are  restrained, 

And  I  have  found  it  so; 
But  when  I  shall  have  all  explained, 

Thy  love  I'll  better  know. 


Kilraught's  Communion 

Kilraught's  must  still  remembered  be, 
While  memory  with  me  stays; 

Here  God  was  wont  to  meet  with  me 
On  sweet  communion  days. 

Alas!  communions  twenty-four 
Have  passed  since  I  was  there, 

Which  of  regret  is  matter  sore, 
Yet  is  my  Christ  as  fair, 

As  sweet,  as  lovely,  as  when  He 

And  I  there  joined  hands; 
Because  He  never  changed  can  be, 

Still  good  the  bargain  stands. 

It  ratified  in  Heaven  was, 
And  there  the  record's  still; 

There  is  not  a  deficient  clause 
In  the  Testator's  will. 

[185] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


But  all  Christ's  Testament  contains 

What  tongue  is  fit  to  tell; 
One  thing  I  know  which  much  explains: 

It  suits  a  bankrupt  well. 

O  that  all  bankrupts  would  avail 

Themselves  of  such  a  boon! 
The  firm  of  Free  Grace  can't  fail, 

Else  we'd  exhaust  it  soon. 

If  Christ  did  pay  the  debt  for  me, 

It  follows  I  am  freed; 
For  if  the  Son  hath  made  me  free, 

I  must  be  free  indeed. 

When  Christ  says  to  a  soul,  "Be  Mine," 

How  can  that  soul  refuse? 
Christ  chose  me  first  and  said,  "I'm  thine,' 

That's  why  I  Christ  did  choose. 

When  Christ  commands  His  dying  love 

By  us  to  be  forth  shown, 
Thereto   His  Spirit  us  doth  move, 

The  work  is  all  His  own. 

Christ's  table,  what  a  meeting  place 
For  Him  and  those  He  loves! 

Choice  tabernacles  of  His  Grace, 
His  people's  privilege  proves. 

The  King  of  Kings  here  takes  a  seat, 

Love  special  to  declare; 
And  I  can  say  the  meeting's  sweet, 

For  I  have  met  Him  there. 

But  woe  is  me,  I'm  ready  now 

To  say  those  days  are  fled; 
My  time  is  spent,  I  scarce  know  how, 

Between  my  couch  and  bed. 

Twelve  years  absent  from  God's  Courts 

Is  sad  to  think  upon; 
Still  the  same  grace  my  soul  supports 

Which  then  upon  it  shone. 

The  active  service  which  I  thought 
To  render  God  hath  changed 


[186] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


To  passive,  still  I  know  I  ought 
To  thank  God,  Who  arranged 

For  me  that  which  concerns  me 

Far  better  than  I  could, 
And  in  so  doing  makes  me  see 

That  He  is  wise  and  good. 

Both  what  God  is  and  what  I  am 
Before  me  He  doth  bring; 

0  that  He'd  heal  me  with  His  Balm, 
Then  I  His  praise  would  sing. 

"I  am  the  Lord  that  healeth  thee," 
Himself  hath   said,  I'm   sure; 

So  Lord  I  hope  Thou  wilt  in  me 
Work  an  effectual  cure, 

Both  for  my  body  and  my  soul  — 
To  means  Thou  art  not  tied  — 

Myself  upon  Thee  I  would  roll 
And  be  Thou  glorified. 

In  taking  me  to  rest  with  those 
That  now  with  Thee  do  rest, 

Whose  exercise  is  but  repose, 
Thy  way  and  time  is  best. 

Only  give  patience  and  I'll  wait 

Whatever  is  Thy  Will; 
Lord,  help  my  soul  in  every  strait, 

It  with  Thy  fullness  fill. 

1  fear  deprivations  smell 
Of  mercies   misimproved; 

Still  one  good  thing  I  have  to  tell: 
My  Christ  is  not  removed 

And  what  is  better,  never  will; 

His  Honor  suffer  would, 
His  contract  did  He  not  fulfill, 

He'll  therefore  keep  it  good. 

My  little  love  for  Him  can  not 
His   Love   from  me   estrange, 

Who  shines  through  clouds  upon  my  lot, 
I'm  glad  my  Christ  can't  change. 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


And  in  Kilraught's  communion  days, 
Though   I   may  never   see, 

In  life  a  living  Christ  I'll  praise, 
Who  suffered  death  for  me. 

My  winter  hath  been  dark  and  long, 
But  spring  will  soon  appear; 

Christ  will  not  keep  me  still  among 
The  lifeless  lumber  here. 

The  time  for  birds  to  sing  will  come, 
In  which  they  will  rejoice; 

E'en  I  that's  now  as  good  as  dumb 
Will  have  both  heart  and  voice. 

A  harp,  moreover,  I  will  get, 
What  songs  of  praise  I'll  sing! 

When  on  my  head  life's  crown  be  set 
By  my  praiseworthy  King. 


O  Lord  I  Will  Praise  Thee 

Here  Lord,  the  mercies  thankfully  I  own 

Which  in  Thy  goodness  Thou  hast  let  me 

see, 
Though  half  of  all  the  goodness  Thou  hast 

shown 
To  us,  by  us  can  never  reckoned  be. 

We  are  Thy  debtors,  and  have  still  been  so, 
And  let  us  still  be  debtors  to  Thy  Grace, 

For  debtors  into   Heaven  we  must  go 
If  ever  there  we  are  to  see  Thy  Face. 

But  I  was  thanking  Thee  for  mercies  here 
Which  we  enjoy,  and  also  have  enjoyed; 

I  thank  Thee  to  my  soul  for  drawing  near 
So  oft  when  it  so  much  hath  been  annoyed. 

I  thank  Thee  for  a  pastor's  visits,  too; 

I  thank  Thee  that  in  life  he  still  is  spared 
All  his  pastoral  duties  to  pursue, 

For  which  still  may  he  be  by  grace  prepared. 

I  thank  Thee  for  prosperity  so  far 

As  Thou  to  prosper  us  hath  seen  it  good, 

[188] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


And  when  at  any  time  our  will  would  jar 
With  Thine,  forgive  the  sin  and  quash  the 
fued. 

And  so  from  strength  to  strength  we  shall  go 
on, 

Unwearied  being  succored  still  by  grace, 
'Till  unto   full  perfection  we'll  have  gone, 

And  then  we  shall  indeed  behold  Thy  Face. 


To  Brother  T. 

Permit  me,  brother,  to  give  you 
Thanks  for  your  present  kind, 

In  which  I  hope  I  more  dp  view 
Than  that  you  me  do  mind. 

For  I  therein  can  trace  God's  Love, 

I  hope  His  Love  I  see. 
Who  did  so  oft  and  well  it  prove 

To  most  unworthy  me. 

God's  mercies  my  past  life  throughout 

To  me  was  manifold, 
But  more  especially  about 

Me  now  I  them  behold. 

Though  me  my  parents  both  should  leave, 

The  Lord  shall  me  uptake; 
I  see  this  truth,  feel't  and  believe 

That  God  won't  me  forsake. 

I  have  no  right  to  choose  my  lot, 

But  I've  a  right  to  be 
Content;  let  me  be  so  or  not 

With  what  God  gives  to  me. 

And  we  have  cause  still  to  give  praise 

God's  Holy  Name  unto, 
Who  did  with  mercy  all  our  days 

Us  each  and  all  pursue. 


[189] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Which  is  Best 

Religion  or  the  world,  which  is  best? 

Some   would   the   first,   far   more   the   last 

prefer; 
Rest  all  are  seeking  and  there  is  a  rest, 

But  as  to  what  it  is,  and  where,  most  err. 

Religion,  true  religion,  who  would  sing 
Thy  worth,  must   something  of  thy  value 
know; 

How  thou  canst  sweeten  every  bitter  spring, 
Where  thy  pure  waters  are  allowed  to  flow. 

Religion,  who  has  got  it  has  the  key 
To  everything  that  can  ennoble  man; 

Where  truth  is  not,  nobility  can't  be, 

I  know  this  is  not  still  the  world's  plan. 

The  world  loves  its  own,  and  therefore  hath 
Its  nobles  suited  to  its  varied  taste; 

Some  in  ambition,  some  in  pleasure's  path, 
With  everything  but  true  religion  graced. 

They  live  without  God,  and  without  God  die; 

This  worst  of  cases  few,  alas!  deplore, 
Or  the  sad  lesson  to  themselves  apply; 

The  world's  just  the  world  and  no  more. 

Still  in  the  world  God  is  pleased  to  hide 
Those  whom  for  nobles  He  acknowledge 
will, 

Feeding  their  kids  the  Shepherd's  tents  beside, 
Blest  people  safe  in  God's  protection  still. 

The  troubles  that  afHict  them  many  are, 
This  is  a  truth  which  God  Himself  hath 

spoke; 

But  sure  they  have  the  best  of  it  by  far, 
Even    when    groaning   'neath    oppression's 
yoke. 

O  peaceful,  holy,  happy  people  they 

Who  are  like  those  to  whom  God  gives  His 
Grace, 

Who  His  Commandments  from  the  heart  obey, 
They  are  in  very  deed  a  noble  race. 

[  IQO] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


And  mine  be  the  religion  which  can  so 
Ennoble  those  who  it  possessing  be, 

That  I  with  all  humility  may  show 

How  much  religion  hath  ennobled  me. 

Religion,  true  religion,  if  I  have 
The  consolation  which  Thou  only  hast 

To  give,  then  I  am  not  the  world's  slave, 
And  soon  its  tribulation  will  be  past. 

Wisely  the  loving-hearted  Mary  chose, 

And  wisely  now  would  Mary  like  to  choose: 

To  me  small  matter  how  the  world  goes, 
From  true  religion  every  good  accrues. 


God  Ever  Near 

Why  do  I  grieve  so  much  for  friends 
Who  can't  be  with  me  here, 

When  for  their  absence  it  makes  mends 
That  God  is  ever  near. 

Yes,  why  for  them  so  much  lament, 
That's  still,  though  absent,  dear? 

All  selfish  grief  it  should  prevent 
That  God  is  ever  near. 

Why,  why  so  much  cast  down  and  sad? 

Sure  'tis  enough  to  cheer 
And  make  the  wounded  spirit  glad 

To  know  that  God  is  near. 

The  reason  is,  I  too  much  love 

My  earthly  friends,  I  fear; 
While  I  forget  God  who  doth  prove 

Himself  a  friend  still  near. 

My  grief  I  should  strive  to  control, 

And  it  more  patient  bear, 
And  not  in  sackcloth  wrap  my  soul, 

As  if  God  was  not  near. 

When  friends  by  death  or  otherwise 

I    lose,   however   dear, 
In  God  let  me  faith  exercise, 

Believing  He  is  near. 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Yes,  Lord,  on  Thee  may  I  depend 
While  Thou  dost  keep  me  here, 

And  be  Thou  evermore  my  friend, 
My  God,  forever  near. 


Grief  Moderated 

Why  pore  I  o'er  my  grief? 

Why  hug  it  in  my  breast? 
Why  don't  I   seek  relief 

Where  thousands  have  found  rest? 

I  seem  so  loath  to  part, 

It,  one  almost  would  think, 

The  friend  'twas  of  my  heart. 
Though  it  my  life  would  sink. 

Lord  make  me  comfort  take 

Where  it  is  to  be  had, 
For  this  poor  heart  will  break 

If  thou'lt  not  make  it  glad. 

O  grief,  heart-trying  grief, 
Companion  as  thou'rt  mine, 

It  is  my  real  belief 

Thy  mission  is  divine. 

For   Providence  works   out, 
But  what  God  purposed  hath; 

In  this  I  have  no  doubt, 

Else  how  could  I  have  faith? 

Why  staggers  faith,  then  whence 

Is  it  at  times  so  weak? 
When  I'd  too  much  trust  sense, 

I  think  there's  the  mistake. 

My  way's  oft  dark,  for  there 
Great  clouds  small  ones  succeed; 

When  shall  the  day  be  fair 
When  cease  this  heart  to  bleed? 

When  shall  this  path  so  rough 
No  more  to  me  be  known? 

Of  joy  when  have  enough? 
When  shall  all  grief  be  flown? 

[  192] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


As  flesh  would  suffering  shun, 
So  let  me  strive  the  more 

With  patience  for  to  run 
The  race  set  me  before. 

There  is  a  land  of  rest, 

Where  saints  no  more  shall  have 
To  sigh  with  grief  opprest  — 

But  that's  beyond  the  grave. 

My  soul  then  murmur  not 

At  trials  given  thee, 
For  thine's  a  happy  lot 

If  there  thou'lt  resting  be. 

Now  Lord  my  faith  increase, 

And  a  foretaste  me  give 
Of  an  unending  peace, 

And  my  poor  soul  shall  live. 

O  look  upon  my  grief 

And  do  forgive  my  sin, 
For  that's  the  true  relief 

And  doth  our  bliss  begin. 

Of  joy  drops  here  are  some, 
But  I  shall  swimming  be, 

When  I  arrive  at  home, 
In  pleasure's  endless  sea. 

To  suffer  is  it  not 

At  present  worth  my  while, 
If  yet  grief  shall  forgot 

Be  in  a  Father's  smile? 


Glad  Tidings 

This  is  a  day  of  tidings  glad, 

And  I  my  peace  do  hold, 
When  to  this  heart  with  voice  so  sad 

Shall  grief  its  tale  have  told. 

And  whence  arises  all  this  grief? 

To  ask  it  might  be  well; 
I  charge  it  most  on  unbelief, 

It  doth  the  tumult  swell. 

[193] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Yes,  unbelief   doth  agitate 

Grief  that  would  else  be  small, 

And  doth  of  sins  most  aggravate 
The  God  on  whom  we  call. 

It  comes,  and  with  its  sable  wing 
O'ershadows  all  my  soul; 

0  faith,  the  olive  leaf  go  bring, 
While  yet  hope's  tide  doth  roll. 

As  went  from  Noah's  Ark  the  dove 
And  back  the  olive  brought, 

So  faith  will  go  and  seek  its  love, 
Christ,  Who'll  be  found  when  sought. 

God  hath  prepared  for  souls  a  feast. 

My  soul  in  want  why  pine? 
Go!  at  His  table  be  a  guest, 

Drink  of  His  mingled  wine. 

Why  feed  on  husks  when  dainties  are 

Laid  up  in  store  for  thee, 
To  which  thou  mayest  still  repair, 

On  which  still  feasting  be. 

For  every  want  that  can  befall, 

Provision  has  been  made; 
So  true  it  is  our  troubles  all 

Upon  our  Lord  was  laid. 

He  bears  us  and  our  troubles,  too, 
Else  who  in  bliss  would  be; 

He  doth  us  to  Himself  subdue, 
Because  His  Grace  is  free. 

The  Gospel  is  the  tidings  glad 
Which  Jesus  doth  proclaim; 

Yes,  which  inviteth  souls  sin  sad 
To  call  upon  His  Name. 

On  grief  as  such  let  me  not  look, 

But  look  from  day  to  day 
To  Him  Who  hath  forever  took 

His  elects'  sin  away. 

1  dare  not  ask  of  God  the  gift, 
Though  it  were  me  to  heal, 


[  194] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


On  which  my  heart  I  could  not  lift, 
And  ask  of  Grace  His  seal. 

Nay,  I  would  rather  bear  the  cross, 

Made  gracious  to  me; 
Yea,  of  all  earthly  things  the  loss, 

If  called  thereto  I  be, 

Than  have  my  portion  with  the  great 
And  Christless  of  the  land, 

Whose  belly  is  their  god,  who  hate 
Truth  nor  will  for  it  stand. 

Better  have  sickness  all  our  days 
Than  have  with  health  a  curse; 

Better  with  poverty  have  grace 
Than  have  an  unblest  purse. 


To  a  Sick  Pastor 

Respected  Pastor,  for  a  time 

Through  illness  you  have  been  confined, 
I  was  afraid  that  in  life's  prime 

Your  duties  were  to  be  resigned. 

I  thought  perhaps  I'll  never  see 
Again  in  life  my  Pastor  dear, 

Who  had  so  sympathized  with  me, 
And  then  would  fall  the  silent  tear. 

For  though  unable  to  declare 
My  sympathy,  I  sympathized, 

And  prayed  our  Pastor  God  would  spare: 
That  hope  we  may  have  realized. 

And  sometimes  God  would  seem  to  say, 
"Your  fears  quiet,  he  shall  live; 

The  flock  I  won't  permit  to  stray, 
But  back  to  it  the  Pastor  give." 

And  then  hope  for  a  time  would  be 
Almost  against  hope  entertained, 

And  I  would  think  I  yet  shall  see 

Our  Pastor  having  strength  regained. 

A  father  to  his  flock  he  was, 
A  kind  and  confidential  friend, 

[195] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Which  to  him  their  affection  draws; 

How  great  their  loss  should  he  not  mend. 

No  wonder  they  so  anxious  are 

That  he  again  recover  may; 
A  pastor  is  his  people's  star, 

And  must  be  missed  if  took  away. 

Perhaps  God's  image  to  reflect 

The  better,  in  the  furnace  cast 
He  is,  or  may  be  to  correct 

His  people  for  remissness  past. 

In  duty,  whether  so  or  not, 

This  trial  make  them,  Lord,  improve; 
Thy  goodness  they  may  have  forgot, 

But  yet  their  mercies  don't  remove. 

Pastor  and  people  sanctify, 

And  make  them  to  each  other  long 

A  mutual  help,  that  absent  I 
May  hear  of  their  being  strong. 

For  years  I  have  been  unfit 

At  public  worship  to  appear, 
But  minister  and  people  yet 

Is  and  must  to  my  heart  be  dear. 

Our  Pastor's  death  would  be  deplored 

Most  deeply  by  his  people  all; 
But  should  he  be  to  health  restored, 

Then  with  the  rest  rejoice  I  shall. 

Our  God  be  praised  he  yet  doth  live, 

And  is  a  little  better,  too; 
Back  to  the  flock  God  may  him  give, 

Pastoral  duties  to  pursue. 

To  preach  soon  able  may  he  be, 

And  soon  to  visit  also  fit, 
For  I  am  thinking  long  to  see 

Our  dear  Pastor  I  admit. 

The  Pastor's  visits  mostly  blessed 

To  those  who  consolation  need, 
Sometimes  e'en  sorrow  unexpressed 

His  conversation  soothes  indeed. 

[196] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


The  bow  oft  at  a  venture  may 
Be  drawn  by  him,  and  yet  between 

The  harness  points  the  shaft  its  way 
Will  find  and  do  its  work  unseen. 

This  is  a  fact  which  many  could 

From  sweet  experience  prove  I  know; 

0  that  our  God  each  pastor  would 

Give  strength  and  skill  to  use  the  bow; 

But  specially  that  Pastor  which 
Charge  of  our  congregation  hath; 

May  God  whose  blessing  maketh  rich 
Still  prosper  him  in  duty's  path. 

His  sympathy  with  mine  and  me 
Is  something  I  remember  should, 

And  while  I  live  it  cannot  be 
But  thought  upon  with  gratitude. 

1  do  not  write  to  eulogize 

Or  flatter  in  the  least  degree; 
My  object  is  to  sympathize 

With  one  who  sympathized  with  me. 

Respected  Pastor,  please  accept, 

As  token  of  regard  sincere, 
These  thoughts  which  into  verse  have  crept, 

A  mixture  just  of  hope  and  fear. 

I  am  convinced  but  poor  they  are, 
Unworthy  your  acceptance  quite; 

But  thou  who  art  thy  people's  star, 
Will  not  despise  the  faintest  light. 


Mercies  Acknowledged 


For  mercies  which  Thou  dost  on  me  bestow, 
O  Lord,  my  God,  I  fain  would  give  Thee  praise; 

I  am  constrained  to  say,  as  free  they  flow, 
And  full  as  they  have  done  in  former  days. 

The  truth  of  this  each  day's  experience  proves, 
For  mercies  many  daily  me  surround; 

As  faith  advances  unbelief  removes. 

And  God  is  to  His  promise  faithful  found. 

[197] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


In  what  befalls  us,  be  that  great  or  small, 
God  ever  is  or  should  acknowledged  be; 

Of  our  defense  He  is  the  only  wall, 

And  that  He  is,  acknowledge  sure  should  we. 

What  unenlightened  minds  calls  chance  and  fate, 

As  such  I  in  my  very  soul  abhor; 
Tried  in  the  balance  it  is  short  of  weight, 

God  in  His  Providence  I'm  looking  for. 

Yes,  for  Him  in  His  Providence  I  look, 
Where  I  have  found  Him,  and  I  hope  again 

To  find  Him  oft  in  that  mysterious  book 
Which  we  so  difficult  find  to  explain. 

The  dealings  of  Thy  Providence  when  viewed 
To  usward,  Lord,  is  wonderful  I  own; 

From  seeming  evil  often  bringing  good, 
And  be  the  glory  Thine  and  Thine  alone. 

Thy  Word  Thy  Providence  seems  to  contrast, 
And  yet  they  are  in  harmony  complete; 

What  now  so  bitter  tastes,  no  doubt  at  last 
I  shall  find  to  be  wholesome  if  not  sweet. 

If  clouds  o'erhang  my  path  hope  brighter  burns, 
The  bow  of  promise  in  the  cloud  when  seen; 

And  God  is  merciful  is  faith's  returns, 
Though  of  it  I  have  most  unworthy  been. 

A  bowless  cloud  the  Christian  never  has, 

Though  it  he  may  not  have  faith  still  to  see; 

'Tis  there,  but  want  of  seeing  it's  the  cause 
That  makes  so  many  saints  dejected  be. 

To  some  degree  is  memory  impressed 

With  recollection  of  God's  kindness  given, 

With  peace  of  conscience  in  some  measure  blessed, 
A  foretaste  as  I  trust  of  peace  in  Heaven. 

'Tis  thus  by  grace  I'm  kept,  though  threatening 

waves, 

Alternate  on  life's  ocean  rise  and  fall; 
The  rock  on  which  my  hope  is  anchored  braves 
The  storm-tossed  billows;  yea,  and  brave   them 
shall. 

[198] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


All  apprehension  it  should  hush  to  peace, 

To  feel  that  I  in  Jesus  am  secure; 
His  Love  for  me  I  know  can  never  cease, 

For  like  Himself  it  ever  shall  endure. 

For  mercies  both  now  and  in  former  days 

Received  from  Thee,  Who  ever  art  the  same, 

Please  to  accept  the  feeble  thanks  and  praise 
Which  I  would  offer  now  in  Jesus'  Name. 

Poor  at  the  best  they  are  I  must  confess, 
And  at  the  strongest  are  indeed  but  weak; 

Yet  if  Thou'st  clothed  me  with  Christ's  Righteous- 
ness, 
I  know  Thou  wilt  accept  them  for  His  sake. 


On  the  Preservation  of  Friends 

O  Thou,  Who  art  with  glory  clad, 

The  everlasting  King; 
Thou  Who  my  poor  heart  hast  made  glad, 

Thy  praises  would  I  sing. 

Yes,  I  would  sing  praise  to  Thy  Name, 

If  Thou  my  heart  prepare; 
Thou  Who  art  evermore  the  same 

God,  present  everywhere. 

Thou  hast  preserved  my  friends  not  here, 

Though  them  I  cannot  see; 
For  Thou  to  them  hast  been  as  near 

As  Thou  hast  been  to  me. 

Lord,  make  them  to  be  Thine  by  grace 

Who  my  relations  art, 
And  make  them  give  to  Christ  a  place, 

The  first  place  in  the  heart. 

If  I  could  trust  them  to  Thy  care, 

As  I  should  ever  do, 
Too  anxious  thoughts  which  are  a  snare 

I   better  would  subdue. 

Believing  brings  faith,  peace  and  joy, 
Then  why  but  we  are  glad? 

[199] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


But  want  of  faith  doth  peace  annoy, 
And  then  we  are  so  sad. 

My  want  of  faith  augments  my  grief, 

And  then  I  am  downcast; 
But  hearing  from  my  friend  relief 

At  present  brought  me  hast. 

Sometimes  I  feel  my  faith  so  small 

I  almost  think  I've  none; 
Weak  faith  have  I,  if  faith  at  all, 

All  that  God  hath  me  shown. 

But  with  Thee  there's  enough  of  grace, 

And  more  than  I  require; 
Forgive  my  sin,  my  faith  increase, 

And  be  my  sanctifier. 

That  Thou  hast  cared  and  still  dost  care, 

O  Lord,  for  mine  and  me, 
Thy  Providence  goes  to  declare, 

And  Thine  the  glory  be. 

To  Father,  Son  and  Spirit  praise 

Alike  I   would  express; 
The  God  of  Glory  and  of  Grace, 

Yea,    and    of    Faithfulness. 


The  Storm 

Again  the  storm  is  passed  away, 

Again    the    sky   is   clear, 
Again  the  night  is  lost  in  day; 

What  lovely  things  appear. 

O  that  I  could  walk  out  to  see, 

Or   even   sit   and   look 
At  distance  on  field,  flower  and  tree, 

And    strive    on    Nature's    book 

The  hand  of  Nature's  God  to  trace, 
And  while  His  works  explore, 

The   God  of  Nature  and  of  Grace 
With  my  whole  heart  adore. 

[  200  ] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


The  recent   storms  have  left  behind 
Proof  of  their  being  here, 

What  leaves  and  blossoms  in  the  wind 
Have  met  an  early  bier. 

The   crop   is  injured   by  the  rain, 
Which  copious  did  descend; 

Man's  work  and  wisdom  is  in  vain, 
Whene'er   God   doth   suspend 

His  blessing  even  for  a  while; 

And  when  He  it  bestows, 
Man's  well  rewarded  for  his  toil, 

Upon   him  plenty   flows. 

Oft  e'en  in  using  judgment's  rod 

God    mercy    doth    display; 
O  that  unworthy  man  his  God 

Would  trust  from  day  to  day. 

Lord,  give  us  grace  to  trust  in  Thee, 
Though  rains  have  heavy  fell, 

And  out  of  season  hail  we  see 
To    overflowing    swell 

The   rivers,  and  much  damage  do  — 
Strange  weather  this  in  June  — 

Thy  favor  yet  to  us  renew, 
Good  weather  give  us  soon, 

So  that  the  husbandman  may  reap 

A  harvest  plentiful; 
And   ever  in  his   mind  do  keep 

That  Thou  all  things  dost  rule. 

The  weather  seems  now  to  be  fine, 
Lord,  make  it  to  hold  out, 

And  sure  I  am  praise  shall  be  Thine, 
From  every  heart  devout. 


[201  ] 


CLOUDS       AND       SUNSHINE 


The  Visit 

My  friend  again  is  gone  away, 
And  all  the  time  which  she  did  stay 

A  word  was  scarcely  spoken 
Of  Him,  for  us  His  Life  Who  gave; 
Which  either  to  neglect  or  waive 

Is  of  us  no  good  token. 

Perhaps  it  was  my  place  to  speak, 
But  being  as  I  still  am  weak, 

Which  effort  is  arresting, 
I  in  my  own  mind  stood  excused, 
Though  my  small  strength  I  oft  misused 

By  useless  talk  and  jesting. 

How  often  does  my  trifling  talk 
More  useful  conversation  baulk, 

And  wherein  lies  this  failing? 
Whether  I've  got  too  much  to  say, 
Or  would  of  wit  make  a  display, 

It  seems  to  me  prevailing. 

I'm  both  ashamed  and  grieved  to  think 
How  this  intoxicating  drink 

I've  to  my  soul  been. giving; 
And  how  the  same  I  oft  did  quaff, 
Which  is  like  losing  wheat  for  chaff, 

And  all  for  want  of  living 

To  precious  Jesus  as  I  should; 
Nor  shall  my  grief  do  any  good 

While  I  allow  this  feature 
So   inconsistently   to    mar 
The  face  of  my  profession  fair, 

Being  of  a  dangerous  nature. 

For  so  is  wit  unsanctified, 
Then  in  it  may  I  never  pride, 

But  study  to  be  humble; 
Henceforth  leave  off  self  to  display, 
And  Christ  set  forth  in  my  poor  way, 

And  less  my  soul  shall  stumble. 

My  former  fault  while  I  lament, 

I  grace  would  ask  it  to  prevent; 

Myself  let   me   be  watching. 

[202] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


I  find  wit  goes  far  to  control 
The  finer  feelings  of  my  soul, 
Of  levity  thoughts  hatching. 

So  I  resolved  have  while  I  live 
To  jesting  less  myself  to  give, 

Though  much  'tis  in  my  nature. 
A  spirituality  of  mind 
To  think  of  saintship  I'm  inclined, 

Doth  show  a  better  feature. 

And  what  I  have  resolved,  O  may 
I  keep  it  in  my  mind  each  day; 

Lest   that  my  resolution 
Should  into  non-existence  creep, 
But  let  me  always  strive  to  keep 

With    healthy    constitution. 

There's  many  thousands  now  in  hell 
Who  while  in  life  resolved  have  well, 

And  thousands  more  shall  enter 
The  hopeless  regions  of  despair 
Who  are  resolving  now  as  fair, 

But  to  bear't  out  don't  venture. 


The  Lily 

See  this  lily,  how  it's  growing, 
Though  it  plucked  is  from  its  stem; 

Neither  discontent  is  showing, 
Though  no  more  a  garden  gem. 

From  the  dews  no  more  receiving 
Nourishment,  yet  who   can   say 

That   it's  showing  signs  of   grieving, 
Though  it  hath  been  took  away 

From  where  it  might  bloomed  in  beauty, 
Nourished  by  refreshing  dew; 

As  it  is  it  knows  its  duty 

Better  than  some  Christians  do. 

Kept  fresh  by  a  little  water 

Sets  to  living  out  its  days, 
Where  to  it  doth  make  no  matter 

So  its  Maker  gets  the  praise. 

[203] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Time  it  loses  not  in  weeping, 
Disappointments  to  deplore; 

All  its  thoughts  seem  bent  on  keeping 
What  it  purposed  had  before. 

On  the  mantlepiece  declaring, 
With  such  voice  as  lilies  can: 

"I'm  a  testimony  bearing 

'Gainst  thee,  misimproving  man. 

"I've  been  croped  and  still  am  growing, 
Having  life  yet  as  you  see, 

Thus  by  my  example  showing 

Something  should  be  done  by  thee. 

"And,  observer,  now  beholding, 
In  this  not  my  native  place, 

Me  my  lovely  leaves  unfolding, 

Though  denied  the  sun's  sweet  rays. 

"Specially  I  thy  attention 
Claiming  would  a  little  be, 

If  of  self  I  might  make  mention, 
Of  myself  I'd  speak  to  thee. 

"See  me  here  at  a  distance 

From  my  fair  companions,  how 

To   my  lot  without  resistance, 
And  improving  even  now 

"What  small  means  is  in  my  power, 
Made,  as  I  believe,  to  show 

Forth  His  praise,  Who  hath  a  flower 
Made  me  by  His  bounty  grow. 

"Notwithstanding  losses  willing 

I  am  still  while  that  I  live 
His  purpose  to  be  fulfilling, 

Who  this  life  to  me  did  give. 

"I  was  plucked  with  His  permission, 
Who  of  such  doth  knowledge  take, 

And  the  best  of  my  condition 
I  have  just  resolved  to  make. 

"Look  upon  me,  look  and  learn, 
Nor  this  lesson  soon  forget: 

[204] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

In  me  canst  thou  not  discern 

Something  which  your  case  hath  met? 

"Think  upon  the  mercies  many 

Which  you  daily  do  enjoy, 
Missing  not  to  reckon  any 

Which  to  praise  might  give  employ. 

"You  like  me  have  met  with  losses, 
Which  no  doubt  you  felt  have  keen; 

But  if  you  improve  your  crosses, 
"Tis  good  you've  afflicted  been. 

"All  the  eloquence  I'm  using, 

Which  a  lily  can  employ, 
To  dissuade  you  from  abusing 

Mercies  which  you  yet  enjoy. 

"Bow  like  me  without  resistance 

To  the  lot  that  thine  is  plain; 
Mine  is  but  a  short  existence, 

But  God  nothing  makes  in  vain. 

"Look  on  me  when  I  am  fading, 

For  I  soon  must  fade  away; 
Think  that  death  there's  no  evading 

This  is  what  I've  got  to  say." 

And  sweet  lily,  hast  thou  finished? 

Well  thou'rt  qualified  to  preach, 
Though  thy  privileges  diminished 

Are  in  private  thou  dost  teach. 

Well  privation  thou  hast  borne, 
Full  contentment  thou  dost  show, 

Though  from  thy  companions  torn  — 
Oh,  that  I  could  bear  it  so! 

Oh,  that  I  could  feel  as  willing 
As  thou'st  shown  thyself  to  be, 

His  purpose  to  be  fulfilling 
Who  hath  given  life  to  me. 

Lilies'  lives,  though  short's  devoted 
To  His  service  Who  them  made, 

By  them  His  glory  is  promoted, 
In  them  is  His  work  displayed. 

[205] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

Better  life  sure  than  the  lily 

Ever  had  I  do  enjoy; 
Lord,  Thee  make  me  follow  fully, 

In  Thy  vineyard  me  employ. 

Though  it  should  be  in  affliction 

For  to  spend  my  weary  days, 
Let  me  have  the  sweet  conviction 

That  I'm  living  to  Thy  praise. 

To  improvement  still  applying, 

Myself  feeling  to  be  Thine, 
Naught  shall  be  so  sweet  when  dying 

As  to  feel  sweet  Jesus  mine. 


A  Charge  to  My  Soul 

Submit  to  correction, 
I  charge  thee,  my  soul; 

But  why  let  dejection 
Thus  over  thee  roll? 

Though  grief  like  the  billow 
Oft  threatens  to  sweep 

Away,  yea,  to  swallow 
Up,  quite  still  must  keep, 

Through  every  motion 
Of  rise  and  decrease, 

Like  that  in  the  ocean, 
Its  appointed  place. 

My  soul  though  thou  sorrow 

Art  tasting  today, 
It  may  have  tomorrow 

Quite  vanished  away. 

And  though  it  should  longer 
Its  stay  make  with  thee, 

Thy  faith  should  be  stronger 
The  longer  it  be. 

Immoderate  grieving 
Indulge  in  dost  thou, 

Though  from  God  receiving 
Much  good  even  now. 

[  206] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Art  thou  in  griefs  keeping? 

I   rather  think  not, 
But  'mid  its  wild  sweeping 

Thyself   thou'st   forgot. 

To  God  thy  relation, 

Again  and  again, 
Think  on,  and  privation 

Will  give  thee  less  pain. 

His  purpose  toward  thee, 

If  mercy  and  peace, 
Though  dark,  cannot  hard  be; 

Thy   doubting   then   cease. 

Nor  would  He  be  dealing 

Injustice  to  thee, 
His  wrath  if  revealing 

This  moment  He'd  be. 

Oft  hath  He  His  goodness 
Made  pass  thee  before, 

And  surely  none  should  bless 
Thy  God  than  thee  more. 

In  danger  of  swamping 
The  ill-rowed  boat  lies; 

To  keep  faith  from  cramping 
It  well  exercise. 

Through  thy  unbelieving 
A  shadow  why  throw, 

On  good  I  receiving 
Am  daily  below. 

To  stagger  when  ready 
The  dark  mountains  on, 

O  keep  faith's  eye  steady 
The  promise  upon. 

Recover   thy  stumble, 

And  let  this  thy  fall 
Henceforth  keep  thee  humble, 

On  God  trusting  all. 

Thy  purpose  is  broken, 
And  e'en  that  may  be 

[207] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


An  evident  token 

That  God  is  with  thee. 

In  mercy  denying 

Thee,  God  often  is 
On  thy  will  relying, 

Then  be  not  but  His. 

In  troubles  to  seven 

He  will  not  forsake; 
But  shall  heirs  of  Heaven 

Safe  through  them  all  take. 

A  peevish  repining 
But  adds  to  our  grief, 

While  to  God  resigning 
Still  brings  some  relief. 

To  grace  that  thou'rt  debtor, 

To  feel  and  confess, 
Would  suit  thee  much  better 

Than  useless  distress. 

'Tis   true   godly  sorrow 
Would  well  thee  become, 

And  self  to  know  thorough 
Would  strike  boasting  done. 

The  sin  thou'rt  bewailing 

Ask  grace  to  subdue, 
The  Name  all  prevailing 

Alone  asking  through. 

Faith's  prayer,  though  it  pleases 

The  Father  to  hear, 
To  prayer  out  of  Jesus 

Will  never  give  ear. 

Of  Christ  through  the  merit 
Which  saints  maketh  fair, 

O  may  I  inherit 

The  spirit  of  prayer, 

So  that  whene'er  sadness 

Envelope  my  soul, 
Therein  I  may  gladness 

Find  grief  to  control. 

[208] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Where  God  is  renewing 
The  heart  by  His  Grace, 

There's  joy  felt  in  viewing 
His  reconciled  Face. 

Joy,  which  well  can  banish 

A  legion  of  cares, 
And  also  make  vanish 

As  many  bug-bears, 

On  God's  Son  relying, 
Entails  joy  and  peace; 

Then  should  sinful  grieving 
And  doubting  both  cease. 

My  soul,  thou'rt  professing 

On  Christ  to  believe, 
Of  joy  then  the  blessing 

Make  haste  to  receive. 

With   argument   filling 
My  mouth  I  have  been, 

To  make  my  soul  willing 
On  Jesus  to  lean. 

But  though  joy  I'd  strengthen, 
Perhaps  'twould  be  wrong 

Out  further  to  lengthen 
At  best  a  poor  song. 


'Will  be  Will" 

Of  all  disease  which  haunt  the  soul 
My  God,  Thou  hast  most  perfect  skill; 

Therefore  this  one  in  me  control 

Which  has  been  well  named,  "Will  be  Will. 

Though  it  is  bad  I  can't  it  mend, 
For  it  prevails  against  me  still; 

But  surely,  Lord,  Thy  Grace  doth  tend 
To  conquer  rebel  "Will  be  Will." 

In  my  soul  it  doth  work  much  grief, 
Yea,  it  occasions  there  much  ill; 

But,  O  Lord,  Thou  canst  give  relief 
From  this  usurper,  "Will  be  Will." 

[209] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


When  it  is  crossed  it  storms  and  frets, 

And  doth  me  with  confusion  fill; 
And  if  a  while  its  way  it  gets, 

A  despot  then  is  "Will  be  Will." 

With  Providence  it  fault  doth  find, 
Yea,  therewith  it  would  quarrel  still; 

Lord  plant  submission  in  my  mind, 

Where  has  grown  boisterous  "Will  be  Will." 

Lord  let  Thy  Spirit  on  my  heart 

Like   gentle  dew  itself  distill, 
Making  my  soul  with  Thee  take  part 

'Gainst  harboring  of  "Will  be  Will." 

For,  Lord,  it  is  Thy  Grace  alone 
Which  can  this  soul  distemper  kill, 

And  only  Christ's  Blood  can  atone 

For  sins  heaped  up  by  "Will  be  Will." 

Of  love,  O  let  me  hear  the  voice 

Which  shall  my  soul  with  gladness  fill, 

Bidding  it  evermore  rejoice 

In  Thy.  defeat  of  "Will  be  Will." 


On  Sudden  Deaths 

Lord,  who  am  I  that  Thou  shouldst  spare 

My  worthless  life  so  long, 
When  by  Thy  Will  death  hence  doth  bear 

The  vigorous  and  strong. 

Yes,  some  who  were  fit  to  pursue 

Their  business,  have  been 
In  a  few  days  called  from  our  view 

To  that  which  is  unseen. 

It  may  be,  too,  with  little  thought 

That  death  to  them  was  nigh, 
While  they  were  to  its  gates  being  brought. 

Scarce  thinking  they  would  die. 

And  when  upon  their  mind  would  flash 
The  truth  of  where  they  stood, 

Ah!  earthly  hopes  how  would  it  dash 
Beneath  death's  cold  dark  flood? 

[210] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Their  spirits  gone  to  bliss  or  woe, 

Their  clay  rests  in  the  tomb; 
Where  we  must  also  be  laid  low 

'Till  Christ  to  judge  shall  come. 

It  matters  little  how  or  where 

Death  comes,  if  we  can  say 
That  He  Who  died  to  ransom  men 

Hath  washed  our  sins  away. 

An  interest  in  Him  give  me, 

O  Lord,  while  I  am  here, 
That  I  at  death  may  joyful  be, 

Without  a  doubt  or  fear. 

Sure  saints  at  death  ought  not  to  grieve, 

Nor  in  the  least  be  sad; 
For  it  from  grief  shall  them  relieve, 

For  aye  to  make  them  glad. 

At  sight  of  home  what  child  say  would 

Not  very  joyful  be, 
After  a  dangerous  way  pursued 

A  father's  face  to  see, 

For  which  'twould  more  than  compensate 

To  see  his  father's  face, 
For  him  to  get  'twould  joy  give  great 

The  long  longed-for  embrace. 

So  shall  the  saints  at  death  be  freed 
From  sin,  from  grief  and  toil, 

For  surely  God  hath  it  decreed 
That  they  shall  take  the  spoil. 

O  God,  Thou  me  afflicted  hast, 
Thou  grief  to  me  didst  send; 

But  Thou  Who  this  lot  for  me  cast, 
Canst  keep  me  to  the  end. 

Keep  me  in  life  until  that  I 

For  Heaven  be  made  meet; 
O  Holy  Spirit,  ere  I  die 

Thy  work  in  me  complete. 

What  signifies  a  life  of  pain. 
Though  that  should  be  my  lot, 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


If  He  that  was  for  sinners  slain, 
My  every  sin  shall  blot? 

While  in  this  life  please  separate 
Sin  from  my  soul,  O  Lord; 

In  me  a  clean  heart  do  create, 
According  to  Thy  Word, 

That  I  with  evil  thoughts  may  be 
No  more  harassed  at  all; 

From  suffering  at  length  me  free, 
In  mercy  do  me  call. 


The  Rose 

Dear  rose,  what  a  beauty  thou  art  in  mine  eye; 
That  thou  art  so  lovely,  there's  a  reason  why. 

No  roses  to  rival  thy  beauty  are  here, 

Which  makes  you  more  lovely  in  my  sight  appear. 

Thou  earnest  in  December,  as  if  thou  wouldst  chase 
Away  with  thy  presence  the  gloom  from  his  face. 

Shall  thy  gentle  voice  his  to  softness  subdue, 
While  thou  art  contrasting  his  snow  with  thy  hue? 

Though  thou  canst  December  to  softness  beguile, 
Thou  hast  got  a  mission,  in  vain  thou'lt  not  smile. 

It  seems  God  hath  sent  thee  that  I  might  behold 
Thee  in  my  seclusion  thy  beauty  unfold. 

Thy  presence  such   comfort   to   me  hath   conveyed, 
I  almost  could  wish  that  thou  never  wouldst  fade, 

But  when  thou  art  fading,  I'll  call  to  my  mind 
A  rose  which  all  others  surpasses  in  kind, 

That  sweet  Rose  of  Sharon,  most  lovely  to  view, 
In  bloom  every  season  and  matchless  in  hue. 

I"  ft  I  may  have  still  an  unfading  rose. 
Which  beauties  infinite  fail  not  to  disclose. 


[212  ] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


My  Present  Cross 

My  present  cross  too  heavy  seems 

For  strength  reduced  as  mine  is  now; 

All  vanished  are  my  pleasant  dreams, 
O  that  I  could  submissive  bow! 

Yes,  bow  submissive  to  that  Will, 
Which  wisdom  infinite  doth  guide; 

And  be  less  apprehensive  still, 

Lest  this  cross  should  through  life  abide. 

What  me  more  than  my  cross  doth  grieve, 

Is  an  unwillingness   to  bear 
It,  which  I  in  myself  perceive, 

Almost  amounting  to   despair. 

But  yet  I  can't  think  God's  unjust 
In  sending  such  a  cross  to  me; 

To  me  a  worm  of  the  dust 
Can   God  injustice   doing  be? 

Is  He  unjust,  though  He  should  strike 
Us  in  a  part  we  most  may  feel? 

Is   not   injustice   most  unlike 

Him  that  to  all  His  works  appeal? 

Can  that  He's  just,  and  they  must  own 
That  e'en  for  sin  He  shall  condemn, 

That  they  themselves  away  have  thrown, 
And  that  God  justly  dealt  with  them. 

If  our  deserts  we  call  to  mind, 
To  murmur  we  would  have  no  reason; 

For  God  our  souls  might  have  consigned 
To  hell,  our  bodies  to  the  tomb. 

But  as  it  is  we  are  alive, 

Recipients  of  mercy  still; 
And  though  afflicted  we  should  strive 

To  know  it  is  our  Father's  Will. 

The  cross  so  heavy  never  lies, 
But  it  is  lighter  than  the  curse; 

And  God's  appointments  all  are  wise, 
It  may  be  bad,  but  might  be  worse. 

[213] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


If  less  forgetful  of  our  God, 

We  would  not  have  so  oft  to  chant 

A  plaintive  song  beneath  the  rod, 
Joy,  Jacob-like,  would  grief  supplant. 

I  can  remember  days  gone  by 
When  confidence  in  God  I  had, 

And  if  on  Him  I  still  rely, 
I  still  have  reason  to  be  glad. 

In   my  anxiety  to  see, 

When  this  cross  shall  away  be  took, 
I   may  somewhat  impatient  be, 

And  God  impatience  cannot  brook. 

If  patience  be  not  exercised, 

We  rebels  are  and  nothing  more; 

Nor  need  we  be  the  least  surprised 
Should  God  to  justice  give  us  o'er. 

But   patience   exercised's   a   grace 
That  is  peculiar  to  God's  saints; 

And  where  it  is  allowed  a  place, 

It  can  bear  much  with  few  complaints. 

O  that  I  patience  could  command! 

But  why  say  that  when  patience  is 
A  gift,  just  from  His  Gracious  Hand, 

Who  by  the  Cross  prepares  for  bliss. 

I'm  sure  so  oft  God  would  not  scourge 
His  people  if  He  loved  them  less; 

But  He  of  dross  His  gold  will  purge, 
Thereon    His    image    to    impress. 

Some  parents  to  a  fault  are  mild, 

Which  oft  too  late  they're  made  to  own 

But  "spare  the  rod  and  spoil  the  child," 
Of  God  has  never  yet  been  known. 

We  Him  constrain  us  to  chastise  — 
If  that  expression  I  may  use  — 

But  then  He  is  too  good  and  wise 
As  a  kind  Father  to  abuse. 

The  right  He  has  us  to  correct, 

One  blow  too  much  He  will  not  deal; 

[214] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Therefore  it  is  that  I  expect 

One  day  He  all  my  griefs  will  heal. 

Meantime  the  cross  I  should  endure, 
As  that  which  is  ordained  for  me; 

God  has  a  purpose  in't  I'm  sure, 
Though  it  at  present  hid  may  be. 

God's  purpose  with  Himself  is  hid, 
From  us  His  secret  things  among, 

We  can't  it  see,  and  if  we  did, 

Ours  might  be  a  less  plaintive  song. 

But  though  it's  not  still  ours  to  know 
What  is  His  purpose  when  He  smites, 

We  at  His  feet  ourselves  should  throw, 
In  showing  mercy  who  delights. 

Affliction  for  our  profit  is, 

Else  God  affliction  would  not  send; 

There  is  a  world  after  this, 

And  thitherward  our  steps  He'd  bend. 

Undoubtedly  the   saints  as   such 
Are  by  this  world  still  despised; 

Nor  does  it  matter  very  much, 
If  they  by  grace  be  recognized. 

The  world  laughs,  we  weep,  and  why? 

Because  it  hath  its  good  things  here, 
And  we  shall  have  ours  by  and  by, 

Though  now  the  cross  we're  called  to  bear. 

Yes,  we  shall  have  our  good  things  when 
Earth's  best  things  yield  must  to  decay; 

And  what  rejoicing  we'll  have  then 
When  sorrow  shall  have  fled  away. 

Each   Christian  hath  marked   out  their  race, 
By  Him  whose   purpose   blight   can   none; 

And  each  in  their  respective  place, 
That  race  with  patience  ought  to  run. 

I  would  not,  if  my  will  I  had, 
Be  wholly  chastisement  without; 

What's  bitter  is  not  always  bad, 

The  cross  precludes  the  crown  no  doubt. 

[215] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Could  I  still  see  the  crown  beyond, 
The  cross  which  I  am  called  to  bear 

I  would  not  half  so  much  despond, 
For  faith  still  has  a  prospect  fair. 

But  all  the  arguments  I  use 

To  some  extent  seem  used  in  vain; 

Still  human  nature  doth  refuse 
To  bear  reproach  or  suffer  pain. 

The  cross  to  bear  I  do  feel  such 

Unwillingness,  I  am  afraid; 
I  have  not  bettered  by  it  much, 

And  that  is  what  me  grieved  hath  made. 

But  I'm  aware  the  cross  I  need, 

And  God  in  it  is  justified; 
O  that  Himself  my  cause  would  plead, 

Then  would  my  sorrow  soon  subside; 

Or  what  for  me  might  be  as  good 

As  if  He  were  it  to  remove, 
If  grace  to  bear  it  give  He  would, 

And  make  me  under  it  improve. 

And  Lord  give  grace  that  I  may  bear 
My  present  cross  with  true  content, 

And  my  submission  shall  declare 
That  it  in  vain  Thou  hast  not  sent. 


New  Years  Day 

I  thank  my  God  that  I  have  lived  to  see 

This  new  year,  also,  and  in  health  so  well; 

That  God  has  been  a  God  of  love  to  me, 
Let  my  protracted  illness  plainly  tell. 

He   never  would   afflict   me   so   without 
A  purpose  worthy  of  Himself  therein, 

And  what  He  has  designed  He'll  bring  about; 
O  may  it  be  to  cure  my  soul  of  sin! 

And  if  so  for  the  present,  though  I'm  tried, 

A  loser  in  the  end  I  cannot  be; 
God  grace  and  glory  never  will  divide, 

Else  what  would  be  to  comfort  such  as  me? 

[216] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


I'm  sometimes  almost  altogether  grief, 

Because  for  any  work  I  am  unfit; 
E'en  thinking  at  such  times  brings  no  relief, 

Left  no  alternative  I  must  submit. 

Nor  will  submitting  with  reluctance  do, 

If  not  resigned  I  cannot  be  content; 
These  trials  God  is  pleased  to  bring  me  through, 

It  was  not  by  mistake  they  have  been  sent. 

Then  I  should  ever  welcome  make  God's  Will, 
Though  Providence  may  seem  a  little  gruff; 

His  presence  with  His  servant  goeth  still, 

And  just  when  He  sees  good  will  say:  "Enough.' 

And  this  doth  cheer  me  that  in  my  distress, 

His  Face  God  from  His  servant  doth  not  hide: 

But  someway  send  me  comfort  more  or  less, 
And  thus  my  sorrow  oft  makes  to  subside. 

My  troubles  have  been  many  God  doth  know, 
My  mercies  still  are  many,  I  can  see; 

For  God  is  good  and  I  would  like  to  show 
How  Friend  and  Father  He  has  been  to  me. 

Out  of  His  fullness  have  we  all  received, 

O  for  more  faith,  still  larger  draughts  to  draw! 

God  gave  sweet  promises  to  be  believed, 
And  in  His  promise  never  was  a  flaw. 

With  tribulation  He  has  promised  grace 
To  bear  it,  otherwise  how  could  I  bear 

Such  tribulation  for  so  long  a  space, 
And  living  still  God's  goodness  to   declare? 

God's  way  of  dealing  with  her  to  be  best 
Here  Mary  Smyth,  a  sufferer,  testifies; 

She  feels  it  and  it  ought  to  be  expressed, 
Assured  in  grace  the  seed  of  glory  lies; 

And  that  in  due  time  it  will  germinate, 

And  spring  up  into  everlasting  joy; 
When  death  my  spirit  shall  emancipate, 

My  pleasures  shall  be  all  without  alloy. 

The  sum  and  substance  of  the  whole  is  this: 
If  Jesus  as  my  Saviour  I  have  known, 

However  tried,  as  sure  as  He's  in  bliss, 

I'll  be  because  light's  for  the  righteous  sown. 

[217] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Let  My  Life  be  Precious  in  Thy 
Sight 

Lord,  let  my  life  be  precious  in 
Thy  sight,  forgive  my  every  sin; 

Withhold   not  aught   I   need 
To  fit  me  for  Thy  Courts  above, 
Where  all  is  joy  and  light  and  love; 

Do  all  Thou  hast  decreed. 

Thy  working  seems  oft  strange  to  me, 
Though  little  of  Thy  ways  I  see, 

For  Thou,  Thyself,  dost  hide; 
But  though  Thyself  Thou  dost  conceal, 
My  spirit  after  Thee  would  feel, 

And  still  in  Thee  confide. 

I  want  to  know  that  Thou  art  mine, 
To  feel  that  I  have  grace  divine, 

A  life  reflecting  grace; 
I  want  to  live,  Lord  give  to  me 
That  without  which  I  cannot  see 

In   righteousness    Thy    Face. 

While  Thou  art  pleased  to  try  me  here, 
Still  let  Thy  love  through  all  appear, 

If  patient  I  could  be; 
No  murmur  would  escape  my  lips, 
Though  sorrow  oft  my  joy  eclipse, 

Because  it  comes  from  Thee. 

From  Thee,  direct  or  indirect, 
All  trials  come,  yet  have  respect 

Lord  to  Thy  promise  made; 
Thy  chastisement  I  don't  despise, 
If  I  might  have  it  otherwise, 

To  choose  I'd  be  afraid. 

I  am  the  clay,  the  Potter  Thou, 
Therefore  it  should  be  mine  to  bow 

At  all  times  to  Thy  Will. 
Me  mould  and  fashion  as  Thou  wilt, 
Only  remove  my  sin  and  guilt, 

And  I'm  Thy  vessel  still. 

A  vessel  fitted  for  Thy  use 

I  want  to  be;  make  me  produce 


CLOUDS       AND       SUNSHINE 


The  fruits  which  grace  makes  grow, 
So  that  when  I  have  served  Thee  here, 
I  in  Thy  Presence  may  appear, 

Where  death  a  face  can't  show. 


Too  Sensitive 

So  ready  why  to  take  offense 
Where  none  perhaps  is  meant? 

Is  my  religion  all  pretense? 
Else  why  this  peevish  vent 

Of  passion?      If  my  heart's  renewed, 

And  broke  corruption's  tide, 
Would  passion  not  be  more  subdued, 

And   less   prevalent  pride? 

I'm  sometimes  ready  now  to  think 

In    Christ   I   have   no   part; 
I  do  feel  to  be  such  a  sink, 

This  sin-polluted  heart. 

There's  reigning  or  remaining  sin 

In  every  heart  I   know; 
But  is  it  reigning  mine  within, 

Or  lurking  as  a  foe? 

It  very  often  staggers  me 

This  question  for  to  solve; 
Sin  in  myself  so  strong  I  see, 

Though  'gainst  it  I   resolve. 

For  reigning  sin,  though  proof  there's  great, 
I'd  fain   think  some  there's  too, 

Of  being  in  a  gracious  state, 
Which  Lord  grant  to  be  true. 

I  of  a  promise  sometimes  can 

With   confidence   lay  hold, 
Which  strengthens  much  my  inward  man, 

And  beauties  new  unfold 

In  Him,  Who  of  His  people  is 

The  Altogether   Fair, 
And  may  I  comeliness  through  His 

Allowed  be  still  to  wear. 

[219] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Profession  is  as  fair  a  flower 
As    grows    upon    the    plain, 

But  without  practice  hath  no  power 
Its  beauty  to  maintain. 

It  may  a  moment  catch  the  eye, 
And  seem  surpassing  fair; 

But  for  its  better  half  once  try, 
And  less  than  nothing's  there. 

To   God  or  man  we  duty  can't 
Perform,   say  what  we   will, 

The  practical  part  if  we  want 
'Tis  but  profession  still. 

Though  very  little  can  be  done 

By  me  to  good  effect, 
To  do  that  little  if  I  shun, 

The  can  fails  through  neglect. 

Our  duty  it  is  hard  to  know, 

I  grant  in  every  case; 
And  harder  still  I  find  to  do, 

But  thereto  Lord  give  grace. 

O  make  me  Thine,  my  heart  enlarge, 

Give  me  the  help  I  need; 
Duty  to   others  to   discharge, 

In  thought,  in  word  and  deed. 

O   let  me  never  misconstrue 
The  carriage  of  my  friend, 

But  in  the  fairest  light  it  view, 
Nor  low-bred  pride  defend. 

Knowing  we  fellow  pilgrims  are 

For  the  same  city  bound, 
Let  sweet  consistency   declare 

The  mercy  we  have  found. 

Though  imperfections  by  the  way 

Me  very  much   annoy, 
Them  power  give  not,  Lord,  I  pray 

At  last  me   to   destroy. 

Too  oft  by  selfishness  and  pride 
My  soul  is  captive  led; 

[  220  ] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Yet  Lord  from  me  Thy  Face  don't  hide, 
For  such  hath  Jesus  bled. 

Yes,  sure  He  shed  His  Blood  for  those 

That's  His  elected  ones, 
Who  though  great  sin  had  made  them  foes, 

That  He  might  make  them  sons. 


Do  I  See  My  Danger 

Am  I  among  the  number 
Who  doth  their  danger  see? 

Or  yet  doth  conscience  slumber, 
Which,  Lord,  show  unto  me. 

If  it's  asleep,  awaken 

It;  now,  O  Lord,  I  pray, 

Let  Satan's  power  be  shaken 
There,  till  it  quite  decay. 

I  have  a  soul  immortal, 

Which  saved  or  lost  must  be; 

Which  enter  shall  life's  portal, 
Or  death  the  second  see. 

When  these  two  are  contrasted, 
There  difference  how  great; 

Yet  one  by  me   must  tasted 
Be,  through  a  future  state. 

And   O  what  am  I  doing 
My  precious  soul  for  thee? 

Am  I  the  means  pursuing 
Of  grace  that's  given  me? 

O  mission  like  a  mountain 
Here  on  my  conscience  press; 

Of  grace  the  same's  the  fountain, 
Though  streams  may  reckon  less. 

Yes,  though  they  less  do  number 
Than  once,  'twont  me  excuse, 

If  I  through  sloth  do  slumber, 
And  those  that's  left  misuse. 

Though  I  can't  public  preaching 
Attend  as  heretofore, 

[221] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


God  gives   me  private  teaching, 
But  dullness  I  deplore; 

And  if  to  me's  intrusted 

A  talent,  e'en  but  one, 
Shall  I  hide  it  till  rusted 

And  useless  it  hath  grown? 

The  buried  talent  haunts  me, 

Alas!   and   do    I   hide 
The  money  which  God  grants  me, 

For  better  ends  supplied? 

E'en  to  give  Him  the  glory, 
Who  gifts  gives  to  that  end, 

And  'twill  a  dreadful  story 
Tell  if  we  those  do  misspend. 

Both   prayer   and   meditation 

Is  open  yet  to  me, 
By  which,  yea,  and  privation, 

Let  me   improving  be. 

When  God  gives  or  denies  us, 
It  all  is  meant  for  good; 

By  these  He  proves  and  tries  us, 
And  it  is  right  He  should. 

Yet  'tis  not  in  affliction 

Away  our  sin  to  take; 
No,  nor  can  e'en  conviction 

Of  sin  us  holy  make; 

These  but  make  sin  the  stronger, 
Where  God  withholds  His  Grace: 

And  hence  it  is  the  longer, 
The  worse  in  such  a  case. 

Lord,  make  me  'mong  the  number 
Who  doth  their  danger  see, 

And  let  not  conscience  slumber 
Till  death  shall  visit  me. 

Prepare  by  sanctifying 

Me  for  a  better  home, 
And  m?v  I   occupying 

Be,  till  my  Lord  shall  come. 

[  222  ] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Counterfeit  Saints 

All  are  not  Israel  who  profess 

Of  Israel  spiritual  to  be; 
A  name  does  some  of  godliness, 

For  in  itself  no  gain  they  see. 

A  name  to  live  if  they  can  get, 
Of  godliness  they  want  no  more; 

For,  having  it,  themselves  they  set 
Just  to  serve  Satan  as  before, 

Who  knows  what  bait  each  fish  best  takes, 
And  each  with  that  he  will  allure, 

By  which,  though  contract  oft  he  breaks, 
His  workmen's  service  he  secures; 

Of  whom  some  work  in  iron,  brass 
Or  gold,  as  best  may  suit  their  taste; 

But  at  his  option  all,  alas! 

Are  in  some  branch  of  business  placed. 

Some  to  ambitions  are  to  drudge, 
A  post  of  honor  they  must  get, 

For  which  their  soul  without  a  grudge 
Into  the  devil's  hand  they  let. 

Some  are  content  to  gather  mud 
To  throw  at  others,  dressed  or  raw; 

They  part  the  hoof,  but  chew  no  cud, 
From  which  inference  we  may  draw 

That  though  profession  separates 
Them  from  the  openly  profane, 

Their  inconsistency  defeats 

The  very  object  they  would  gain, 

And  that  is  to  be  well  thought  of, 
Whatever  they  may  do  or  say; 

Such  in  their  person  we  can  love, 
But  never  in  their  zigzag  way. 

Another  class  I  mention  would 

Of  those  who  saints  profess  to  be, 

And  by  whom  might  be  done  some  good 
Among  themselves  could  they  agree; 

[223] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


But   on   contention  they're  so  bent, 
For  every  trifle  they'll  contend; 

In  quarreling  their  life's  so  spent, 

You'd  think  to  fight  was  their  chief  end. 

Their  house  is  but  a  scene  of  strife, 
Where  peace  is  not  allowed  to  dwell; 

And  would,  if  painted  to  the  life, 
Be  called  the  vestibule  of  hell. 

To  hear  some  abroad  you  would 
Imagine  they  were  saints  outright; 

They  speak  as  if  by  grace  renewed, 
And  did  in  holiness  delight. 

Have  dealings  with  them,  then  you'll  see 
That  if  they  can  advantage  take, 

Not   over   scrupulous  they'll  be 

By  what  means  gain  of  you  they  make. 

In  short,  with  all  their  pious  cant, 

They'll  cheat  their  neighbor  if  they  can; 

They  opportunity  but  want 
To  lay  aside  the  honest  man. 

Though  fraudulent  designs  to  meet, 
A  good  profession  will  not  bend; 

Where  practice  scienced  is  to  cheat, 
There  they  profession  can  suspend. 

That  which  should  bear  on  every  word 

And  action,  soon  aside  is  laid; 
For  though  God's  wrath  should  be  incurred, 

The  heart's  dictates  will  be  obeyed. 

Hypocrisy   in   any  shape 

Is  but  deformity  at  best; 
Its  consequence  who  would  escape, 

Should  never  harbor't  in  their  breast. 

If  hypocrites  would  know  their  fate, 
Let  them  to  God's  own  Word  apply, 

Where  is  declared  their  real  state 
More  accurately  than  have  I. 

As  there  is  none  who  more  doth  make 
Religion  in  men's  nostrils  stink, 


[224] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


So  none  shall  in  the  burning  lake, 
In  my  opinion,  deeper  sink. 

Uncharitable  it  may  seem 

To  think  or  speak  so  hard  of  those, 
But  hell  is  not  a  poet's  dream, 

Nor  fancy-sketches  are  its  woes. 

Hypocrisy  God  won't  excuse, 

Than  punish  it  He  can't  do  less, 

For  they  His  goodness  but  abuse 
Who   without  practice   much  profess. 

The  hypocrite  may  pass  indeed 
With  man  for  what  he  never  was, 

And  there  and  only  there  succeed 
In  getting  undeserved  applause. 

Who  so  would  counterfeit  the  saints, 
As  counterfeits  God  shall  disown; 

But  I  will  cease,  though  my  complaints 
Have  not  their  bitter  theme  outgrown. 

A  most  unpleasant  theme  it  is, 
And  on  it  I'll  no  longer  dwell; 

I'd  rather  sing  of  saints  and  bliss 
Than  Satan,  hypocrites  and  hell. 


The  Idiot's  Prayer 

Old  Nancy  was  a  widow  very  poor, 

Lived   by   herself,    except   an   idiot   boy 

That  lived  with  her,  and  I  am  almost  sure 
That  e'en  in  him  she  had  a  mother's  joy. 

For  when  I  saw  him,  though  a  full-grown  man, 
With  mother  he  was  docile  as  a  child, 

At  least  so  far  as  I  remember  can 
His  disposition  bordered  on  the  mild. 

Whatever  little  work  they  had  to  do, 
Dan  did  as  cheerful  as  an  idiot  could; 

Poor  man!  on  him  I  never  saw  a  shoe, 

Yet  God,  Who  still  is  Love,  to  Dan  was  good. 

He  sent  him  food  and  raiment  of  such  kind 
As  He  saw  fit,  and  Dan  was  quite  content; 

[225] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


For  having  as  he  had  an  idiot  mind, 
It  having  anxious  care  did  him  prevent. 

Such  beings  for  some  purpose  God  doth  send, 
Though  in  creation  they  seem  but  a  blank, 

They  may  be  born  to  a  better  end 

Than  many  we  among  the  wise  would  rank. 

Poor  Dan,  the  gander  though  he  could  not  fight, 
Could  tether  mother's  goat  or  water  bring, 

Or  play  the  fiddle  on  a  wrist  screwed  tight, 
To  gratify  us  children,  and  would  sing. 

One  day  he  went  to  gather  sods  to  burn, 

His  work  was  sure,  though  seldom  done  in  haste; 

And,  to  his  great  dismay,  on  his  return 
A  horse  had  in  the  avenue  been  placed. 

He  might  have  gone  about,  but  no  such  thought 
Could  have  occurred  to  him,  for  there  he  stood 

Still  bearing  up  the  burden  he  had  brought, 
Not  knowing  how  this  danger  to  elude. 

The  owner  of  the  horse  had  gone  away 

And  left  him  standing  'cross  the  thoroughfare, 

And  what  to  Dan  at  first  seemed  but  dismay, 
Soon  took  the  color  of  complete  despair. 

There  he  stood,  crying  as  a  child  would  done; 

His  case  was  pitiable  that  was  plain, 
But  none  of  us  could  help  the  widow's  son, 

And  for  a  while  his  crying  seemed  in  vain. 

But,  idiot  as  he  was,  somehow  he  knew 
That  there  was  an  Almighty  Hand  could  save, 

And  in  this  plight  what  did  the  idiot  do 
But  help  from  this  Almighty  Being  crave. 

He  bawled  and  shouted,  eager  to  be  heard, 

Not  thinking  God  was  still  at  hand,  of  course; 

The  suppliant's  voice  his  fervor  did  declare: 

"Great  Mighty,  come  and  take  away  this  horse" 

Was  just  his  prayer,  and  this  again,  again 

Was  just  what  he  vociferated,  till 
God,  Whom  none  ever  supplicates  in  vain, 

Came,  and  it  may  be  with  a  peace  be  still. 

[226] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


However,  Dan  was  heard  the  sequel  showed; 

A  brother  at  a  little  distance  dwelt, 
Whose  heart  with  brotherly  affection  glowed, 

At  least  on  that  occasion  must  have  felt. 

On  hearing  Dan's  dilemma,  Oh!  how  fast 
He  came,  I  think  I  see  him  running  yet; 

Thus  Dan  the  insurmountable  got  past 
And  likely  soon  his  terror  did  forget. 

The  whole  occurrence  memory  retains, 

I  often  think  it  over  in  my  mind; 
I  observation  make  and  that  explains 

For  meditation  how  I   matter  find. 

For  though  then  but  a  child,  I  can't  forget 
Dan's  difficulty,  how  he  prayed,  and  how 

The  idiot's  prayer  God  with  an  answer  met, 
For  that  God  answered  it  I  still  allow; 

The  brother  was  the  means  I  do  admit, 

But  God  works  oft  by  means  when  answering 
prayer; 

E'en  difficulties  may  not  always  flit, 

But  trust  Him  and  He'll  show  the  Lord  is  there. 


Unbelief  Adds  to  Our  Cross 

What  is't  but  unbelief 

That  heavy  makes  our  cross? 

'Tis  this  that  works  our  grief 
And  makes  us  suffer  loss. 

If  we  would  but  believe, 

'Twould  make  the  cross  so  light 
That  we  would  it  receive 

With  joy  as  being  right. 

We  would   not  life  upgive, 
At  least  we  court  its  name; 

As  if  a  name  to  live 

Could  give  on  life  a  claim. 

We  would  not  give  up  hope; 
Then  why  is  it  that  we 

[227] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Do  in  the  dark  so  grope, 
As  if  we  would  not  see? 

What  selfishness  we  show, 
When  we  submission  should; 

As  if  God  doth  not  know 
What's  really  for  our  good. 

We  murmur  and  complain 
And  thereby  sorrow  feed, 

As  if  God  sends  a  pain 

More  than  His  people  need. 

When  Thou  me  dost  correct, 

Whatever  be  the  rod, 
Let  me  therein  respect 

Thy  will  and  voice,  O  God. 

For,  Lord,  if  I  am  Thine, 
'Twould  be   a   shame  to  me, 

At  Thy  Hand  to  repine, 
Whate'er  the  trial  be. 

God  dark  my  way  makes  seem, 

But  if  I  trust  in  Him, 
Though  I  can't  ford  the  stream, 

By  faith  I'll  strive  to  swim. 

I  need  not  life  upgive, 
Except  on  death  I'm  bent; 

For  God,  that  I  might  live, 
His   Son  to  die  hath  sent. 

I  cannot  give  up  hope, 

I  dare  not  it  despise; 
Nor  need  in  darkness  grope, 

Unless  I  shut  my  eyes. 

My  eyes  with  salve  anoint, 
O  Lord,  that  I  may  see 

In  all  Thou  dost  appoint, 
That  it  is  good  for  me. 

Good  when  the  draught  is  sweet, 
Good  also  when  it's  sour; 

Good  when   I   trials   meet, 
As  in  the  sunshine  hour. 

[228] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


The  cross,  the  cross  is  good 

If  God  it  sanctifies, 
Oft  'neath  the  wormwood 

The  sweetest  honey  lies. 

Lord,  to  the  prayer  give  ear, 
Which  I  now  make  to  Thee: 

When  done  my  work  is  here, 
Eternal  rest  give  me. 


Disappointment  Improved 

Why  so  disappointed  feel 

When  friends  doth  tarry  long? 

Sure  my  soul  rests  not  thy  weal 
On  friendship's  hand,  though  strong. 

Too  devoted  to  my  friend, 

Far  too  much  so  am  I; 
Which  fault  I  might  somewhat  mend, 

The  cure  if  I'd  apply. 

This  is  my  besetting  sin, 

At  least  I  think  it  so; 
Though  to  search  when  I  begin, 

Which  is  I  scarcely  know. 

Why  the  creature  in  my  heart, 

Give  the  Creator's  place? 
If  I  do  I  soon  shall  smart 

By  hiding  of  God's  Face. 

If  I  do  instead  of  God 

A  creature  idol  make, 
He  shall  turn  it  to  my  rod, 

Or  from  my  sight  it  take. 

God  in  the  affections  should 
Not  have  the  second  place; 

On  His  right  if  we  intrude, 
Profession  we  disgrace. 

Our  love  should  to  all  extend, 
E'en  to  those  who  us  hate; 

Reaching  unto  foe  and  friend, 
Love's  boundary  is  great. 

[229] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Love  alone  unbounded  is 
When  it  from  God  doth  flow; 

Through  Christ  never  bound  had  His, 
Nor  limit  shall  it  know. 

God's  Love  can  the  frigid  zone 

To  be  a  temperate  bring; 
Melt  the  heart  though  hard  as  stone, 

Into  a  living  spring. 


Boasting  Excluded 

If  those  who  think  me  patient  knew 
All  my  impatience  as  I  do, 

Their  notion  alter  would; 
If  of  my  heart  they  had  a  blink, 
They'd  see  as  they're  now  pleased  to  think, 

I'm  not  by  half  so  good. 

How  many  times  pass  unexpressed 
Thoughts  of  repining  through  the  breast, 

Which  strangers  know  not  of; 
At  least  I  find  it  so  with  me, 
Though  I  can't  in  the  least  degree 

Repining  thoughts  approve. 

So  far  as  we  with  flesh  confer, 
So  far  undoubtedly  we  err; 

O  what  a  clog  this  clay 
Unto  my  soul  I  daily  find; 
Yea,  it  is  ever  disinclined 

To  walk  in  duty's  way; 

And  if  thereto  it's  dragged  along, 
'Twill  claim  what  doth  alone  belong 

To  God,  that  is  the  praise. 
If  I  perform  aught  that's  good, 
'Twill  strive  for  pride  to  make  it  food 

Thereby  itself  to  raise. 

I  must  confess  this  heart  within 
As  lurking  many  a  hateful  sin, 

By  mortal  eye  unseen; 
Christ's  Blood  and  Spirit  can  repair 
Alone  the  awful  ruin  there, 

And  make  and  keep  it  clean. 

[230] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Then  let  me  not  elated  be 

With  good  opinions  formed  of  me, 

Which  I  so  ill  deserve; 
I  see  when  tossed  on  every  side 
And  made  the  sport  of  wind  and  tide, 

Grace  can  alone  preserve. 

And  sure  'tis  worth  my  while  to  know 
That  all  I  have  God  doth  bestow, 

To  differ  who  makes  me; 
No  Christian  should  cherish  pride, 
But  in  humility  abide, 

Yes,  humble  ever  be. 

Pride  to  our  fallen  nature  clings, 

And  e'en  on  saints  much  trouble  brings 

My  soul  against  it  guard; 
For  even   that  thou  art  renewed, 
Much  pride  is  in  thee  unsubdued, 

To   conquer  it  how  hard. 

God  doth  the  proud  afar  off  know, 
And  shall  their  lofty  purpose  low 

Bring  even  to  the  dust; 
Please  Lord  from  my  soul  still  to  hide 
God-hating,  soul-destroying  pride, 

That  I  in  Thee  may  trust. 

And  if  I'm  Thine,  the  war's  begun 
With  pride,  and  yet  the  victory  won 
Shall  be  o'er  that  dread  foe. 

0  do  Thou  slay't  before  my  eyes, 
And  suffer't  nevermore  to  rise 

To  deal  another  blow. 

The  love  of  Christ  doth  us  constrain 
To  bear  with  patience  grief  and  pain, 

'Tis  this  doth  us  enerve; 
For  sin,  while  I  would  mourn  deep, 

1  on  my  heart  strict  eye  should  keep, 
Its  motions  to  observe. 

For  well  I  know  its  bent  is  strong 
For  doing  what  God  saith  is  wrong, 

And  what  He  says  is  true. 
O  Thou,  Who  seest  its  every  bent, 
My  ruin  by  it  do  prevent, 

Grace  give  it  to  subdue. 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


I  would  alone  in  grace  rejoice, 
Though  flesh  speaks  with  another  voice, 

My  soul  do  not  it  heed; 
While  I  do  suffer  'neath  Thy  rod, 
Support  me  with  Thy  staff,  O  God, 

Supply  my  every  need. 

To  grace  I  would  the  debtor  be, 
For  it  is  grace  alone  which  me 

Can  unto  Heaven  bring; 
Of  graces  then  I  cannot  boast, 
Though  of  them  I  possessed  an  host, 

Of  grace  alone  I'd  sing. 

Grace  or  the  spirit  is  the  root 
Of  which  the  spirit  is  the  fruit, 

The  mere  evidence 
Of  being  in  that  living  vine, 
From  which  alone  life  can  be  mine; 

Saints  all  their  fruit  have  thence. 

I  dare  not  take  in  any  case 
To  self  the  glory  due  to  grace, 

That  grace  alone  which  can 
Bear  well  life's  ills,  yea,  them  summount, 
And  best  gifts  turn  to  good  account 

Which  Nature  gives  to   man. 

So  far  as  we're  by  grace  renewed, 
So  far  will  evil  be  subdued 

And  boasting  laid  aside; 
Those  who  in  truth  God  for  their's  claim, 
And  would  give  glory  to  His  Name, 

To  self  must  be  denied. 

That  I  a  patient  life  may  live, 
An  humble  spirit  Lord  me  give; 

O  set  my  heart,  I  pray 
On  those  enduring  things  above, 
Where  Christ  doth  sit  and  saints  doth  love, 

And  serve  Him  night  and  day. 

Delightful  hopes  I  entertain 

Of  yet  being  free  from  sin  and  pain, 

On  such  I  love  to  dwell; 
That  I  of  glory  am  an  heir, 
The  very  thought  forbids  despair, 

And  whispers  it  is  well; 

[232] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Well,  when  of  pleasant  things  bereft, 
Well,  when  me  friends  profess'd  have  left, 

Well,  when  real  ones  are  gone; 
Well,  if  in  weakness  long  live  I, 
Well,  if  in  Christ  soon  called  to  die, 

Well  all  God's  work  is  done. 


The  Vow 

Part  First  — Why? 

Four  loving  sisters  once  I  had, 
Of  whom  three  now  are  gone; 

In  immortality  they're  clad, 
Still  God  hath  left  me  one. 

But  lately  she  was  like  to  go 
Where  went  her  sisters  three, 

And  sister's  death  a  heavy  blow 
Would  doubtless  fall  on  me. 

I  felt  I  could  not  long  survive 

If  God  took  her  away; 
Grief  to  suppress  I  well  did  strive, 

But  still  I  was  its  prey. 

It  took  possession  of  my  heart, 

My  head  nigh  crazy  grew, 
Thinking  with  sister  I  must  part 

And  nothing  fit  to  do. 

As  if  quite  stupid  in  my  grief, 

One  thought  all  thoughts  outweighed; 

In  prayer  I  sometimes  sought  relief, 
But  there  the  oil  seemed  stayed. 

One  morning  while  yet  in  my  bed, 

Not  knowing  what  to  do, 
A  thought  came  quickly  in  my  head: 

I'll  go  to  God  anew. 

My  heart  went  out  to  Him  in  prayer, 
And  there  I  made  this  vow: 

If  sister  God  to  me  would  spare, 
And  strength  to  her  allow, 

[233] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

That  I  His  mercies  great  to  own 

Would  set  a  day  apart, 
When  sister  would  have  better  grown; 

Then  lighter  grew  my  heart. 

Henceforward  sister  better  grew, 

This  gladly  I  confess; 
For  which  my  thanks  to  God  anew 

I'm   ready  to   express. 

And  as  to  paying  what  I  vowed 

If  sister  God  would  spare, 
If  God  hath  took  away  the  cloud, 

It's  plain  He  heard  my  prayer. 

Then  I  have  no  alternative, 

My  vow  I  can't  withdraw; 
Sister  God  back  to  me  did  give 

From  death's  devouring  maw. 

His  mercies  it  is  right  I  should 

Acknowledge  such  a  day; 
I  would  not  shun  it  if  I  could  — 

I  vowed  and  I  will  pay. 

And,  O  my  God,  do  Thou  prepare 

My  sister's  heart  and  mine, 
With  grace  Thy  goodness  to  declare, 

To  praise  our  hearts  incline. 

The  why,  my  God,  Thou  well  dost  know 

Of  this  Thy  servant's  vow; 
Thy  blessing  on  my  work  bestow, 

And  help  me  through  the  how. 


The  Vow 

Part  Second  —  How 

The  day  is  come  and  how  shall  I 

It  right  observing  be; 
My  God  with  songs  my  heart  supply 

That  I  may  sing  to  Thee. 

I  cannot  sing  as  angels  sing, 
Who  are  before  Thy  Face; 

[  234] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

But  I  can  touch  another  string, 
For  I  can  sing  of  grace. 

To  grace  my  mercies  every  one 

Ascribing  I  must  be; 
Of  mercies,  though  I  merit  none, 

I  many  have  I  see. 

To  give  God  thanks  this  is  a  day 

That  I  apart  have  set, 
And  in  God's  own  appointed  way 

Acceptance  may  I  get. 

A  starting  point  I  have  got  here 

In  this  delightful  song, 
Nor  runs  the  limpid  brook  so  clear 

The  craggy  rocks  among. 

God's  Word  yields  soul-refreshing  streams 

Because  the  fountain's  pure; 
It  never  is  but  what  it  seems  — 

How  good  it  is,  how  pure. 

Its  harmonizing  parts  so  well 

A  perfect  whole  prove  can; 
Life-giving  in  its  taste  and  smell, 

God-worthy  in   its  plan. 

God's  Word  can  fully  meet  our  wants, 

Whatever  they  may  be; 
How  it  revives  the  sickly  plants 

Is  not  unknown  to  me. 

How  suited  to  a  day  of  thanks 

Is  this  praise-speaking  psalm; 
Here  souls  may  overflow  their  banks, 

Be  stirred  up,  yet  be  calm. 

Here  I  the  mercies  would  recount 
Which  God  to  me  hath  shown; 

I  may  not  get  the  full  amount, 
For  numerous  they've  grown; 

And  though  I  could  enumerate, 

I  could  not  all  rehearse; 
God  of  His  praise  I  dare  not  cheat, 

But  can't  put  all  in  verse. 

[235] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


'Twould  constitute  a  life-long  poem, 
And  that  would  be  top  much; 

Each  mercy  as  we're  going  home 
Let's  recognize  as  such. 

But  special  mercies  it  is  fair 

Especially  to  own; 
God  saw  my  tears,  heard  my  prayer, 

Here  special  mercy  shone. 

My  sister  lives  to  comfort  me; 

Dear  sister,  let  us  sing 
To   Him,  the  praise   forever  be 

Who  did  us  safely  bring 

Through  this  and  every  other  scene 

Of  trouble  which  we  passed; 
To  us  God  hath  a  refuge  been, 

Ourselves  on  Him  let's  cast. 

God  spared  your  life,  I  well  may  say, 

When  like  to  go  you  were; 
And  that  you  are  alive  this  day, 

Let  this  day's  thanks  declare. 

Sometimes  the  cloud,  sometimes  the  sun 
We've  had,  still  we  should  praise, 

For  surely  like  our  God  there's  none 
Who  with  His  people  stays. 

We  of  God's  goodness  must  have  seen 
I  think  much  more  than  some, 

Nor  of  our  God  dare  we  complain 
Though  darker  days  should  come. 

Life's  battle  here,  you  and  I 

Are  left  alone  to  fight; 
But,  dear  sister,  let  us  try 

Still  to  be  doing  right. 

Forward,  still  forward,  let  us  press, 

Whatever  may  oppose, 
For  saints  we  cannot  be  unless 

We  saints  are  to  life's  close. 

God  give  us  grace  to  be  content 
With  everything  He  sends; 

[236] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


What  matter  where  our  lives  are  spent, 
Death  gathers  scattered  friends. 

That  precious  psalm  which  you  have  read 

To  stir  us  up  today, 
Its  lofty  strains  my  soul  hath  led 

To  life's  fair  fields  away, 

Where  our  departed  friends  do  rest, 

Or  roam  as  it  may  be; 
For  every  pleasure  have  the  blest, 

Befitting  spirits  free. 

They  may  be  privileged  to  explore 
God's  works  through  every  sphere; 

To  be  with  Christ  comprises  more 
Than  we  can  think  of  here. 

But,  sister,  let  us  strive  to  live 

As  we  would  wish  to  die, 
And  God  our  spirits  will  receive 

To  dwell  with  Him  on  high. 

I'm  sure  we  never  will  regret 

When  we  to  Heaven  come, 
That  we  have  such  affliction  met 

As  we  were  going  home. 

There  joys  do  last,  for  God  fails  not, 

He's  present  with  us  now; 
What  I  have  prayed  for  I  have  got, 

And  I  have  kept  my  vow. 

But  kept  imperfectly,  no  doubt, 

As  all  is  done  I  do; 
But  the  intention  was  devout, 

And  grace  hath  helped  me  through. 

And  now  I  think  the  why  and  how 

I  better  had  conclude; 
God  spared  my  life  to  keep  my  vow, 

For  which  I  thank  Him  would. 

Sister,  we  both  should  thankful  be 
That  God  your  life  did  spare, 

You  are  a  living  proof  to  me 
That  God  hath  heard  my  prayer. 

[237] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Your  life  from  you  God  well  might  took, 

And  me  no  sister  left; 
But  on  my  sorrow  God  did  look, 

And  I  am  not  bereft. 

That  I  have  not  been  left  alone, 

That  you  still  with  me  stay, 
That  God  His  Love  to  me  hath  shown 

A  witness  be  this  day. 

What  think  you,  sister,  was  this  not 

A  very  happy  day? 
Joy  in  your  spirit  have  you  got? 

Mine's  joyful  I  can  say. 

For  what  am  I  that  God  should  show 

Such  mercy  unto  me, 
That  when  to  Him  by  prayer  I  go, 

My  prayer  should  answered  be? 

I  feel  as  if  a  burden  had 

Been  lifted  from  my  soul; 
And  if  the  Lord  hath  made  me  glad, 

Let  praise  wind  up  the  whole. 

Yes,  sister,  let  us  once  more  praise 
This  day  with  thanks  sincere; 

His  Name  in  whose  mysterious  ways 
We've  been  brought  and  kept  here. 


Thanks  for  Mercies 

Lord,  I  thank  Thee  for  the  mercies 
Which  Thou  now  hast  let  me  see, 

Thou  art  bountiful  and  givest 
Many  good  things  unto  me. 

O  that  I  could  praise  and  bless  Thee! 

O  that  I  sweet  songs  could  sing 
Of  my  gratitude  expressive, 

O  that  I  my  heart  could  bring 

With  me  into  every  duty! 

But  it  is  so  dead  and  dull, 
'Twill  be  either  in  a  stupor, 

Or  with  thoughts  vexations  full. 

[238] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

All  the  chastisement  God  gives  me, 
All  the  goodness  He  hath  shown, 

It's  as  ready  for  rebellion 
As  if  it  was  made  of  stone. 

Hard  it  is,  I  wont  excuse  it; 

Hard  its  nature  is  to  be; 
Lord,  Thy  Grace  alone  can  melt  it  — 

Nothing  is  too  hard  for  Thee. 

Thou  canst  break  the  rock  in  pieces, 
Thou  canst  all  Thy  pleasure  do; 

Thou  canst  barren  hearts  make  fruitful, 
Thou  canst  also  mine  subdue. 

Make  it  flexible  and  easy 

With  Thy  goodness  still  impressed, 

With  a  heart  then  fain  to  praise  Thee, 
O  my  God,  I  shall  be  blest. 

Surely  since  I've  been  enlisted 

In  Thy  service  long  ago, 
I  can  say  I  never  met  with 

Than  my  heart  a  greater  foe. 

Lord,  in  check  I  cannot  keep  it, 

But  wilt  Thou  its  keeper  be; 
Cleanse  it  from  its  latent  vileness, 

And  it  shall  be  well  with  me. 

Many  are  the  marks  of  kindness 

Which  Thou,  Lord,  to  me  dost  show; 

Many  are  the  obligations 
Which  I  to  Thy  mercy  owe. 

Make  my  heart  what  Thou  wouldst  have  it, 

Just  to  be  in  every  case, 
And  it  shall  be  to  the  glory, 

To  the  glory  of  Thy  Grace. 


To  a  Robin 

Wherefore,  robin,  art  thou  come, 
Tapping  at  the  window  pane? 

Maybe  you  would  have  a  crumb, 
If  yourself  you  could  explain. 

[239] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Hunger-bitten  if  thou  art, 

Sorry  I  indeed  would  be, 
And  it  would  rejoice  my  heart 

Could  I  throw  a  crumb  to  thee. 

But  I  see  the  window's  closed, 
Nothing  can  be  done,  alas! 

To  relieve  your  wants  supposed, 
Still  your  tapping  at  the  glass. 

Could  I  rise  to  open  it, 

You  perhaps  would  fly  away, 

But  as  strength  won't  that  permit, 
Sympathize  with  you  I  may. 

Had  the  window  open  been, 
Safe  inside  you  might  have  fed, 

And  God's  goodness  to  me  seen 
In  providing  daily  bread. 

I  can  neither  work  for  food, 
Nor  go  seek  it  had  I  need; 

Still  God  is  to  me  so  good 
That  He  doth  me  daily  feed. 

Of  His  goodness  thou  dost  know, 
On  Him  too  thou  dost  depend; 

Thou  canst  neither  plough  nor  sow, 
Still  He  food  to  thee  doth  send. 

But  perhaps  a  parent  thou 
Robin  art,  thy  little  brood 

Therefore  will  be  watching  now 
For  your  coming  back  with  food; 

If  so,  here  to  detain 

Thee  unkind  to  them  would  be, 
But  be  sure  you'll  come  again 

When  the  window  up  you'll  see. 

Then  I'll  either  throw  a  crumb 
Out  to  thee,  or,  if  you  will, 

Safely  inside  you  may  come 
Pretty  bird,  and  pick  your  fill. 

Often  have  the  feathered  race 
Entertained  me  with  their  song, 

[240] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


And  away  I'll  never  chase 

What  hath  cheered  me  so  long. 

I  than  thou  more  helpless  am, 
Still,  while  God  provides  for  me, 

Willingly  I  shall  the  same, 
Pretty  robin  share  with  thee. 

Yes,  henceforth  I  gladly  will 
Robin  to  your  wants  attend; 

Welcome  to  my  window  still, 
You  shall  be  my  little  friend. 

When  you're  hungry,  come  and  eat; 

When  your  merry  come  and  sing; 
For  your  voice  to  me  is  sweet, 

I  will  watch  for  you  in  spring, 

If  I  then  shall  living  be; 

And  if  not  remember  this, 
Redbreast,  mourn  not  for  me  — 

I  shall  have  my  song  in  bliss. 

Here,  through  the  winter  frost, 
I  have  tried  to  sing  like  you; 

But  death's  valley  when  I've  crossed, 
And  life's  trials  all  gone  through, 

Angels  and  redeemed  among, 
Far  removed  from  every  ill, 

Nothing  to  obstruct  my  song, 
I  will  sing  my  hearty  fill. 

If  of  birds  the  happy  song 
I'm  delighted  now  to  hear, 

Sweeter  music  shall  ere  long 
Fall  on  my  devoted  ear. 

Sweet  anticipation  this, 
When  my  spirits  sad  would  be, 

That  forever  I'll  in  bliss 

Have  a  song  from  sorrow  free. 


[241] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Take  No  Thought  For  Tomorrow 

Why  am  I  so  burdened  with  care  for  tomorrow? 

Sufficient  for  each  day  is  the  evil  thereof; 
Then  why  from  the  future  do  I  evil  borrow, 

Before  what  is  evil  the  full  time  doth  prove? 

I  feel  that  I  scarce  can  trust  God  with  tomorrow, 
Though  that  He  can  do  what  He  will  I  do  know; 

Forever   I'm   brooding   o'er   some    coming   sorrow, 
As  if  what  God  sees  best  He  would  not  bestow. 

Away  then,  my  soul,  with  thy  care  for  tomorrow, 
To  exercise  faith  is  what  God  asks  of  you; 

No  more  from  the  future  supposed  evil  borrow, 
But  give  God  the  credit  which  to  Him  is  due. 

Without  hesitation  trust  God  with  tomorrow, 
For  unto  His  promise  still  faithful  is  He; 

And  though  for  a  short  time  thou   shouldst  have 

sorrow, 
It  matters  but  little  if  life  thine  shall  be. 

Then  with  this  hope  I  may  trust  God  with 
tomorrow, 

And  rise  and  His   cause  against  unbelief  plead; 
For  sin  my  repentance,  Lord,  make  it  so  thorough 

That  to  be  repented  of  it  shall  not  need. 

None  shall  be  ashamed  who  trust  God  with 
tomorrow, 

For  they  are  relying  on  His  promise  sure; 
From  whose  observation  escapes  not  a  sparrow, 

Nor  aught  in  creation,  however  obscure. 

God's  Spirit  can  make  me  trust  Him  with  tomorrow, 
So  that  I'll  not  limit  Him  Who  fills  all  space 

To  selfish  opinions  or  to  notions  narrow, 

Which  flesh  entertains   of   His  power   and   grace. 

God  give  me  Thy  Spirit,  today  and  tomorrow, 
With  it  in  this  life  for  the  next  do  me  seal; 

For  of  true  religion  Thy  Spirit's  the  marrow  — 
Then  give  me  that  without  which  none  shall 
prevail. 

[242  ] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Whose  Am  I 

To  solve  this  question,  "Whose  am  I?" 

O  Lord  enable  me; 
For  when  to  solve  it  I  would  try, 

I'd  look  for  strength  to  Thee. 

That  I  am  His  Whom  I  obey, 

Thou  me  assured  hast; 
And  as  my  service  is,  so  may 

Expect  reward  at  last. 

There  are  two  masters,  and  but  two: 

These  God  and  Satan  are; 
To  one  we  can  but  service  do, 

They  differ  do  so  far. 

And  as  the  masters  can't  agree, 

The   servants   neither   can; 
They  differ  as  doth  bond  and  free, 

O   stupid,  thoughtless  man. 

Who  will  be  serving  Satan,  though 

Death  is  for  that  the  due; 
Who  won't  repent  will  find  it  so, 

When  wrath  shall  them  pursue. 

No  wonder  then  I'd  like  to  know 

Whose  servant  I  have  been; 
And  if  I  yet  to  Christ  did  go 

To  get  my  soul  made  clean. 

My  heart,  Lord,  make  me  search  with  care, 

If  I  Thy  servant  be; 
And  if  I  Satan's  livery  wear, 

Reveal    it    unto    me. 

Yes,  Lord,  I  pray  Thee  do  me  show 

The  truth  now  of  my  case; 
Better  the  truth  of  it  now  know, 

When  within  reach  is  grace. 

That  I  my  heart  may  see  aright, 

Thy  Spirit  give  to  me; 
Yes,  grant  me  Lord  Thy  Spirit's  light 

That  I  my  heart  may  see. 

[  243  ] 


CLOUDS      AND      SUNSHINE 


And  with  this  light  I  can  but  sin 

See  in't  from  end  to  end, 
Nor  do  I  my  whole  heart  within 

Find  one  desire  to  mend. 

The  heart  by  Nature's  biased  sure 

To  everything  that's  wrong; 
And  to  a  fountain  so  impure 

Can  a  pure  stream  belong? 

But  was  it  not  the  Spirit's  light 

Made  me  my  sin  to  see, 
And  hate  then  is  it  wrong  to  write 

That  grace  hath  made  me  free? 

By  Nature  I'm  a  leper  more 

Than  Naaman  was  I'm  sure, 
And  as  he  for  his  grievous  sore 

Found  washing  was  the  cure, 

So  from  sin's  leprosy  there's  naught 

But  washing  can  us  cleanse; 
And  Jesus'  blood,  when  rightly  sought, 

Thereto's  the  only  means. 

Whoso  believes  that  Christ  can  save, 

And  willing   is  that  he 
Would  save  them,  justice  can't  them  crave, 

For  grace  hath  made  them  free. 

And  if  myself  I  don't  deceive, 
Although  my  faith's  but  small, 

I  willingly  on  Christ  believe, 
And  take  Him  for  my  All. 

Yes,  though  at  best  my  faith's  but  weak, 

For  weak  it  is  I  see; 
I,  Jesus  as  my  All  would  take, 

Assured  my  All  He'll  be. 

Self  righteousness  renounce  I  would, 

That  would  to  hell  me  bring; 
I  would  be  washed  in  Jesus'  blood, 

And  to   His  merits  cling. 

And  now  I  think  conclude  I  may, 
O   God  that  I  am  Thine; 

[244] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


And  on  the  same  ground  safely  say, 

0  God,  that  Thou  art  mine. 

And  Oh!  is  God  in  covenant 

Become  my  God  indeed? 
Then  He  will  let  me  nothing  want 

Of  which  He  sees  I  need. 

And  if  it's  so  that  God  is  mine 

1  should  proclaiming  be, 

Lord  to  proclaim  my  heart  incline 
The  grace  that  made  me  free. 

From  speaking,  how  can  I  refrain? 

I  can't;  to  speak  I'll  try, 
At  least  my  practice  should  speak  plain 

Of  Christ  to  passersby. 

Yes,  fain  to  passersby  I'd  tell 
What  Christ  hath  done  for  me, 

Who  worthy  is  of  naught  but  hell, 
And  yet  there  shall  not  be. 

Sure  if  what  Christ  hath  done  I'd  hide, 

I  would  be  much  to  blame; 
For  sure  He  will  be  glorified 

In  all  who  know  His  Name. 

I  was  a  slave,  a  born  slave, 

Yet  passersby  come  see 
How  Jesus,  who  alone  can  save, 

By  grace  hath  made  me  free. 

Come  for  yourselves,  see  and  believe, 

He  will  not  you  deny; 
He's  willing  sinners  to  receive, 

For  sinners  He  did  die. 

In  Him  dwells  all  the  fullness  of 

The   Godhead  bodily; 
Then  come,  O  come  to  Him  and  prove 

The  grace  that  maketh  free. 

Though  you  can  nothing  with  you  bring, 
You'll  find  Him  all  you  need; 

To  be  a  Prophet,  Priest  and  King 
For  aye  He  is  decreed. 

[245] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


If  ignorance  be  your  complaint, 

He  ignorance  can  cure, 
A  Prophet  He  without  restraint 

Is  to  give  knowledge  pure. 

And  if  beneath  sins'  weight  you  groan, 

A  Priest  He  is  also, 
Who  Himself  offered  to  atone 

To  save  from  endless  woe. 

And  if  you're  troubled  much  with  foes 
Which  are  too  strong  for  you, 

Them  how  to  conquer  well  He  knows, 
A  King  He's  to  subdue. 

Now  this  one  well  your  wants  can  meet 

However  great  they  are; 
Come  with  your  wants,  fall  at  His  feet, 

Yourselves  for  Him  declare. 

Yes,  come  ye  passersby  and  taste 

That  gracious  is  He; 
One  precious  moment  do  not  waste, 

But  closing  with  Him  be. 

Let  not  earth's  things,  however  fair, 
Keep  Christ  and  you  between; 

For  souls  are  often  shipwrecked  there, 
There  thousands  lost  have  been. 

Close  in  with  Christ  I  you  beseech, 

Again  I  say,  close  in; 
While  mercy  is  within  your  reach, 

Go  get  you  rid  of  sin. 

And  when  of  Christ  you  do  take  hold, 
You   then  will  join  with  me 

In  making  this  assertion  bold, 
That  grace  hath  made  you  free. 


[246] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


A  Prayer  for  a  Sick  Friend 

O  Lord  unto  my  prayer  attend! 

Send  forth  Thy  Word  and  heal  my  friend 

Who  suffered  hath  so  long; 
O  do  the  supplication  hear 
With  which  before  Thee  I  appear, 

Thy  suppliants  among. 

'Tis  for  my  sick  friend,  Lord,  I  pray, 
And  send  me  not  unheard  away, 

For  to  whom  should  I  go? 
If  Thou  Thine  ear  wilt  not  ope 
To  me,  I  have  no  other  hope, 

No  other  God  I  know. 

That  my  friend  may  be  on  death's  brink, 
My  soul  is  troubled,  Lord,  to  think, 

Much  troubled  I  confess; 
Not  numerous  my  friends  have  been, 
So  it  would  be  a  blow  felt  keen 

If  I  must  count  one  less. 

O  harken  Lord  my  prayer  unto! 
As  I  have  said,  my  friends  are  few; 

O  spare  this  friend  to  me, 
Whose  friendship  I  can't  think  to  lose, 
Though  I  dare  not  dictate  or  choose, 

My  friend  I'd  like  to  see. 

He  whom  Thou  lovest,  Lord,  is  sick, 
Let  faith  not  at  appearance  stick, 

But  let  it  still  prevail; 
To  faith's  prayer  Thou'lt  a  hearing  give, 
But  speak  the  word  and  he  shall  live, 

Thy  word  send  forth  him  heal. 

Of  my  friend's  life  need  I  despair 
When  Thou  art  God,  God  everywhere, 

And  better  knowest  than  I 
Whether  Thy  glory  it  would  more 
Advance  his  strength  for  to  restore, 

Or  call  him  now  to  die. 

And  if  this  sickness  be  to  death, 
A  joyful  yielding  of  his  breath 

[247] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

To  Thy  hand  may  it  be; 
When  comes  the  separation  near, 
His  spirit  with  Thy  presence  cheer, 

Give  him  the  victory. 

Shield  him  'gainst  Satan's  every  wile, 
Death's  valley  light  up  with  Thy  smile, 

That  he  his  course  with  joy 
May  finish,  and  among  the  blest 
Enter  on  his  eternal  rest, 

Where  nothing  can  annoy. 

Though  death  to  him  would  bring  relief, 
I  think  to  me  it  would  bring  grief; 

And  yet  I  would  not  grieve 
For  him,  as  those  no  hope  who  have, 
When  friends  are  called  unto  the  grave, 

He's  Thine  I  do  believe. 

Thine,  did  I  say?    Yes  Thine  O  Lord, 
This  thought  to  have  I  can  afford, 

For  I  the  fruit  have  seen 
Of  his  being  in  the  living  vine; 
Naught  but  Thy  grace  could  Him  incline 

To  be  what  he  hath  been. 

And  that  he's  sick  now  argues  not 
That  he  is  by  his  God  forgot; 

Ah!  no,  it  cannot  be. 
For  whom  God  loves  He  will  chastise, 
And  still  have  love  in  exercise, 

This  thought  now  comforts  me; 

For  if  he's  Thine,  as  Thine  he  is, 
A  tolerable  state  is  his, 

Though  suffering  'neath  the  rod; 
Pain  and  disease  may  rack  his  frame, 
E'en  death  may  come,  but  still's  the  same 

His  interest  in   God. 

On  his  behalf,  Lord  hear  my  prayer 
Which  is:  that  Thou  his  life  mayest  spare; 

O  raise  him  up  again, 
That  he  in  active  life  may  serve 
Thee,  Who  in  life  can  but  preserve, 

And  in  sickness  sustain. 

That  he's  chastised  Thou  best  knowest  why, 
Affliction  to  him  sanctify, 

[248] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


That  he  in  truth  may  say: 
The  Lord  hath  me  chastised  sore, 
But  not  to  death  yet  given  o'er; 

His  mercy  was  my  stay. 

Life  I  have  asked  for  him,  O  give 
Him  length  of  days  that  he  may  live, 

I've  asked  for  Jesus'  sake; 
But  whether  he  may  live  or  die, 
This  one  thing  don't  to  me  deny, 

Thy  Will  my  pleasure  make. 

For  resignation  to  Thy  Will, 
Howe'er  opposed  to  mine,  I  still 

Would  like  to  make  my  aim; 
And  though  of  friends  bereaved  I  be, 
Thyself  make  up  the  loss  to  me, 

Who  livest  and's  still  the  same. 

0  what  a  privilege  is  prayer, 
Which  saints  enjoy  may,  everywhere 

It  answered  may  I  see; 
Ere  I  began  my  heart  was  sad, 
But  now  I  feel  it  somewhat  glad  — 

To  God  the  glory  be. 

My  pleasure  now  Thy  Will  awaits 
To  see  if  Thou  wilt  from  death's  gates 

Lift  up  and  strength  renew; 
And  if  indeed  my  friend  Thou'lt  raise, 
From  me  Thou'lt  have  a  song  of  praise, 

If  Thou'lt  give  grace  thereto; 

For  what  is  won  by  prayer  should  be 
With  praise  acknowledged,  Lord,  to  Thee 

And  now  I  leave  the  case 
Without  reluctance  in  Tby  hand, 
Whose  will  submission  doth  command, 

With  what  Thou  wilt  give  grace. 

Yes,  make  Thy  grace  sufficient  still 
For  me  whatever  be  Thy  will; 
That  what  concerns  me 

1  to  Thy  wisdom  may  submit, 
In  every  case,  as  is  most  fit, 

And  trust  where  I  can't  see. 


[249] 


CLOUDS       AND       SUNSHINE 


The  Happy  Hereafter 


How  is  the  ransomed  throng  employed 
That's  now  God's  Throne  before? 

The  little  griefs  that  once  annoyed 
Them  now  are  felt  no  more. 

Like  those  they  left  behind  they  had 

Their  share  of  sorrows  here; 
But  now  the  Lord  hath  made  them  glad, 

And  they  have  naught  to  fear. 

The  world's  distinctions  shall  no  more 
Inflame  their  heart  with  pride; 

Dissensions   grievous  and  sore 
No  more  shall  them  divide. 

A  heart  once  to  backsliding  prone, 
They  now  have  ceased  to  mourn; 

Sin  and  the  tempter  both  are  gone, 
And  shall  no  more  return. 

And  though  the  storm  blew  loud  and  long 

Upon  life's  troubled  sea, 
Their   Pilot's  arm  was  skilled  and  strong, 

And  them  preserved  He. 

And  when  in  dangerous  calms  their  heart 
Would  sleep  on  ocean's  breast, 

His  watchword  was,  "Arise,  depart, 
For  this  is  not  your  rest." 

And  thus  alike  through  calm  and  storm 

He  on  His  wings  them  bore. 
Past  dangers  of  most  threatening  form 

To  Heaven's  peaceful  shore. 

And,  Oh!  the  beauty  which  that  land 

Presents  unto  the  view 
Of  those  whose  feet  shall  ever  stand 

In  the  Jerusalem  new; 

They  in  companionship  most  sweet 

Shall  with  the  angels  dwell, 
And  though  their  song  is  both  complete, 

The  saints'  song  doth  excel. 

[250] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


And  so  abundant  is  their  joy, 

That  it  shall  know  no  end; 
In  peace  without  the  least  annoy, 

Eternity  they'll  spend. 

Hunger  and  thirsting  there  is  o'er, 
For  them  the  Lamb  shall  feed; 

And  to   life's  fountain   evermore 
To  drink  He  shall  them  lead. 

And  thus  sustained  they're  still  prepared 

For  holy  exercise, 
Praise  here  imperfectly  declared 

Shall  there  most  perfect  rise. 

For,  so  to  speak,  they  breathe  the  air 

Of  holiness  entire, 
And  nothing  shall  be  wanting  there 

Perfection  can  desire. 

The  sun  of  righteousness  in  gleams 
Did  shine  on  them  while  here; 

But  there  they  bask  shall  in  His  beams, 
Effulgent,  pure  and  clear. 

But  language  now  cannot  express 

The  glory  of  that  place, 
Where  He  that  reigns  in  righteousness 

Is  pleased  to  show  His  face. 

But  we  must  now  be  purged  from  dross, 

If  there  we  would  appear, 
And  must  with  patience  bear  the  cross 

If  there  the  crown  we'd  wear. 


A  May  Day 


My  life  is  spared  unto  another  May, 

While  many  souls  are  in  eternity, 
Since   this   day  twelvemonth,   which   was  new   May 
Day; 

But  God  has  willed  that  I  should  this  one  see. 

And  how  it  childhood  to  my  mind  doth  bring, 
When  I  of  heart  and  foot  alike  was  light; 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


To  join  the  sportive  children's  hand-linked  ring, 
Of  whom  each  face  with  joy  and  health  beamed 
bright. 

But  fled  those  days  are,  and  with  them  are  fled 
Not  only  sport,  but  strength  of  body,  too; 

For  I  no  more  with  vigorous  step  can  tread 
'Cross  flower-clad  fields  thy  beauties,  May,  to 
view. 

Fair  are  thy  flowers  as  when  I  used  to  look 
On  them  with  fond  delight  and  childish  glee, 

As  they  grew  on  the  meadow  by  the  brook, 
Or  elsewhere  on  the  daisy-covered  lea. 

The  trees  as  lovely  are  unto  the  eye, 

The  bird's  song  is  as  sweet  upon  the  ear, 

As  when  I  scarce  knew  what  it  was  to  sigh  — 
May  is  May  still  though  I  confined  am  here. 

But  is  there  not  a  land  where  strength  fails  not, 
And  flowers  in  every  season  are  in  bloom? 

O  fair  and  holy  land,  without  one  spot 

Of  sin,  be  thou  my  rest  beyond  the  tomb. 

My  trials  how  could  I  bear  if  I  had 

Not  hope  that  I  would  yet  arrive  in  thee, 

Where  I'll  with  immortality  be  clad, 

And  hence  from  mortal  suffering  be  free. 

How  sweet  to  sit  in  shadow  of  the  tree 

Of  life,  with  wholesome  fruit  and  leaves  still 
green; 

What  signifies  privations  here  I  see, 

If  Heaven's  beauties  shall  by  me  be  seen? 


On  the  Death  of  Olive  May 

Dear  Olive  May,  not  long  ago 
(I  think  about  a  week  or  so), 

You  were  in  life  and  glee; 
Your  face  with  health  and  beauty  shone, 
But  now  you  to  the  grave  are  gone, 

And  friends  now  weep  for  thee. 

[  252  ] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Sweet  child,  your  death  none  could  prevent, 
Though  many  to  the  rescue  went  — 

Top  late  it  seems  they  came; 
For  injuries  you  had  received 
Before  they  could  get  you  relieved 

From  the  devouring  flame. 

Death  sometimes  makes  a  mild  advance, 
But  clothed  in  terror  all  at  once 

Here  seized  upon  the  prey; 
No  more  of  fun  or  frolic  now, 
Death's  pallor  settled  on  your  brow, 

And  you  have  gone  away. 

How  much  you  suffered  I  can't  tell, 
Nor  on  the  sad  occurrence  dwell 

That  did  you  hence  remove; 
But  I  can  say  your  life  was  short, 
And  that  your  death  might  well  exhort 

Survivors  to  improve; 

For  ample  ground  it  doth  afford 
To  mark  the  doings  of  the  Lord, 

And  well  improved  should  be. 
However   others   may  receive 
This  chastisement,  I  do  believe 

God's  Hand  in  it  I  see. 

Ascribing  it  to  mere  chance 
Would  prove  a  deal  of  ignorance, 

The  least  of  it  to  say. 
God  gave  the  child  to  live  so  long, 
Then  sent  death  with  a  purpose  strong 

And  took  her  life  away. 

Among  her  little  playmates  she 
No  more  is  seen,  no  more  will  be, 

This  lamb  is  gone,  but  where? 
Perhaps  among  Christ's  lambs  to  rest, 
And  if  she  is  her  lot  is  blessed, 

For  all  are  safe  that's  there. 

Its  charge  the  grave  a  while  must  keep, 
Where  she's  in  death's  unbroken  sleep, 

So  lovely  and  so  young; 
Her  requiem  I  this  day  do  sing, 
And  birds  or  breezes  coming  spring, 

Perhaps  mine  may  have  sung. 

[253] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


An  invalid  ere  she  was  born, 
Eleven  times  I've  seen  the  thorn 

Put  on  its  snowy  dress, 
Since  I  was  fit  to  work  a  day; 
But  God  will  have  it  His  own  way, 

And  I  just  acquiesce. 


The  Last  Step 

We  must  step  through  death  to  glory 

If  we  ever  shall  be  there, 
Nor  need  thoughts  of  dissolution 

Drive  the  Christian  to  despair. 

Death's  the  last  step  in  life's  journey, 

And  a  solemn  one  it  is; 
As  it's  last  so  is't  decisive 

To  our  future  woe  or  bliss. 

Earth  and  earth's  concerns  leaving 

And  forever  us  behind, 
Brings  no  doubt  a  strange  sensation 

To   the   contemplative   mind. 

Some  there  are  whose  conscience  slumber 
On  the  threshold  of  the  grave, 

Others  with  a  hope  ill  founded 

Vainly  think  they  death  shall  brave. 

And  some  after  their  life  spending, 

Slighting  gospel  offers  all; 
Have  their  conscience  then  awakened, 

To  despair  a  prey  to  fall. 

Nothing  is  to  them  remaining, 

But  a  fearful  looking  for 
Of  judgment,  which  poured  shall  be 

On  those  whom  God  doth  abhor. 

Truly  this  a  sad  condition 

Is  to  leave  the  world  in, 
And  the  saddest  of  the  story 

Is  it  doth  but  hell  begin. 

Just  a  foretaste  this  of  torment, 
Which  shall  everlasting  be; 

[254] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


And  what  everlasting  meaneth 
Shall  unfold  eternity. 

Still  in  death  there  is  a  sweetness 
Which  the  Christian  tastes  alone, 

For  He  Who  leads  through  life's  journey 
Safe  in  death  shall  keep  His  own. 

True  the  pang  of  separation 
May,  and  is,  by  Christians  felt, 

Objects  when  about  to  part  with 
Which  close  to  the  heart  have  dwelt. 

Fathers,  mothers,  brothers,  sisters, 
Parents   kind,   and   children   dear, 

One  or  all  of  these  relations 
Which  doth  feed  affection  here, 

To  be  parted  from's  a  trial; 

But  the  saints  enabled  are 
In  God's  Hand  to  leave  survivors, 

Sure  of  them  He  will  take  care. 

He  whose  promise  is  performance, 
And  whose  purpose  naught  can  waive, 

For  the  widow  and  the  orphan 
Shall  provide  though  in  the  grave 

Their  best  earthly  friend  is  lying, 

God  an  husband  sure  shall  be 
To  the  widow,  and  a  father 

To   the  fatherless   is   He. 

Dying  saints  then  loved  relations 

To  a  loving  God  can  leave; 
Yes,  and  leave  them  with  composure, 

Sure  their  hope  He  won't  deceive. 

O  my  soul,  make  God  thy  portion, 

Tabernacled  while  in  clay; 
Then  through  death  thou  shalt  to  glory 

Pass  undoubtedly  away. 


[255] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


My  Friends 

Nothing  would  I  more  desire 

For  my  friends  than  them  to  see, 

Give  themselves  to  Christ  entire 

While  in  youth  and  strength  they  be. 

Unto  my  relations  gracious 
Be,  O  Lord,  I  Thee  beseech; 

In  Thy  sight  may  they  be  precious, 
Do  them  with  Thy  Spirit  teach. 

Yes,  prepare  them  with  Thy  Spirit 
Heaven's  anthems  for  to  swell, 

Qualify  them  to  inherit 
Where  the  saints  securely  dwell. 


Leaving  Home 

Let  those  despair  at  loss  of  earthly  things 

Who  with  no  better  hope  their  hearts  can  cheer; 

Time's  things  to  look  beyond  is  that  which  brings 
To  estimate  aright  possessions  here. 

When  Israel  was  from  Egypt  called  the  fair 

Land  of  Canaan  for  to  go  possess, 
'T would  worse  than  folly  been  to  have  stayed  there, 

'Twould  been  mistrusting  God  and  nothing  less. 

Earth's  but  an  Egypt  proved  day  after  day, 
Wherein  continuing  cities  we  have  none; 

Nor  may  we  e'en  in  Goshen  here  stay, 
For  Canaan  is  the  promised  rest  alone. 

Then  at  a  moment's  warning  we  should  be 

Ready  to  give  up  all  we  here  possess; 
Since  earth  is  not  the  Christian's  rest,  and  we 

Should  strive  for  that,  nor  be  content  with  less. 

Though  I  must  leave  home  I'll  think  oft  upon 
It,  and  the  dear  friends  I  there  have  lost; 

Or,  rather  those  who  have  before  me  gone, 
Who  on  life's  ocean  shall  no  more  be  tossed. 

[256] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


O  how  thought  lingers  between  stay  and  leave! 

Though  I  do  know  the  time  for  leaving's  come; 
Yonder's  the  car  me  waiting  to  receive, 

Which  just  hath  come  to  bear  me  from  my  home. 

Let  those  despair  at  loss  of  earthly  things 

Who  with  no  better  hope  their  heart  can  cheer; 

Time's  things  to  look  beyond  is  that  which  brings 
To  estimate  aright  possessions  here. 


To  Miss  S. 

Dear  friend  many  thanks  for  your  visit, 

It  helped  me  a  little  I'm  sure, 
And  thus  you  have  somewhat  diminished 

That  which  if  you  could  you  would  cure. 

Nor  are  you  the  sole  sympathizer, 
I  think  I  have  still  a  few  more, 

To  whom  I  feel  ever  as  grateful 

As  if  sympathy  strength  could  restore. 

Indeed,  I  was  longing  to  see  you, 
Because  many  friends  I  have  not 

Who  care  for  my  welfare  as  you  do, 
Old  friendship  you  have  not  forgot. 

God's  people,  and  this  is  a  blessing, 
For  each  other  praying  can  be; 

My  friend,  do  not  cease  for  to  pray  for, 
And  still,  when  you  can,  visit  me. 

I  much  value  good  conversation, 

Though  little  myself  fit  to  say; 
I've  told  you  your  coming  hath  helped  me, 

The  reason  to  tell  you  I  may. ' 

In  general,  though  not  melancholy, 
But  just  the  reverse  as  you  know, 

There  are  times  when  unsought  dejection 
A  gloom  o'er  my  spirits  would  throw. 

You  came  when  my  spirits  were  sinking, 
God  sent  you  in  answer  to  prayer; 

You  being  the  means  He  selected 
Low  spirits  a  little  to  mar. 

[257] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


We  know  of  all  good  God  the  source  is, 
Yet  oft  He  through  means  doth  convey 

His  goodness,  and  while  we  would  praise  Him, 
Means  also  acknowledge  we  may. 

This  is  just  why  I've  wrote,  you'll  excuse  me, 

As   otherwise  I   can't  express 
The  thanks  which  I  owe  you  for  coming 

My  friend,  God  remember  and  bless. 


Just  What  I  Feel 

Dear  brother,  I  upon  you  often  think, 
How  you  are  sorrowing  for  me  lest  I  sink 

Beneath  the  weight  of  trouble  which  I  bear, 
Of  which  I've  had  a  more  than  common  share. 

My  bed  seems  of  my  weight  though  small  to  mourn, 
As  there  from  weary  side  to  side  I  turn. 

Sorrow  doth  sorrow  in  my  bosom  meet, 
And  conquest  of  me   makes  almost  complete. 

I'm  half  afraid  the  storm  not  long  I'll  brave 
On  life's  rough  sea,  where  each  succeeding  wave 

Seems  more  and  more  a  giant's  form  to  take, 
And  sets  me  as  its  mark  'gainst  which  to  break. 

Yet  notwithstanding  trouble's  swollen  tides, 
God  in  Himself  a  refuge  me  provides. 

This  cheering  thought  my  cold  heart  often  warms, 
That  underneath  me  are  the  lasting  arms. 

A  ray  of  hope  still  lingers  in  this  breast 
That  God  is  me  preparing  for  His  rest. 

And  O  how  sweet  that  rest  above  to  taste 
After  the  turmoils  of  this  howling  waste! 

Though   grief  my  spirits  sometimes  drinketh  up, 
And  though  I  find  mine  is  a  bitter  cup, 

When  faith  of  Jesus'  Face  doth  get  a  blink, 
Without   a   murmur   then   the   draught    I    drink. 

[258] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

If  I  on  Jesus'  faith's  eye  fixed  could  keep, 
Although  my  troubles  are  both  broad  and  deep, 

As  momentary  this  would  make  them  seem, 
Just  like  the  tide  upon  a  shallow  stream; 

Or  like  the  rustling  among  the  trees 
When  agitated  by  a  passing  breeze; 

So  surely  shall  life's  troubles  soon  be  o'er, 

And  then  the  Christian  shall  have  cause  no  more 

Of  any  kind  of  trouble  to  complain, 

For  they  beyond  this  life  shall  know  no  pain. 

Meantime  my  patience  this  should  much  provoke 
To  bear  as  me  becomes  my  present  yoke. 

Am  I  an  heir  of  glory?    Why  then  fret 
Because  the  promised  good  I  can't  here  get? 

What  saint  would  in  despondency  sit  down 
Because  on  earth  he  cannot  have  his  crown? 

I'm  surely  guilty  of  a  grand  mistake, 

If  I  on  earth  my  resting  place  would  make, 

Which  I  do  know  I  much  am  prone  unto 
When  all  is  calm  and  fair  within  my  view. 

But,  like  the  dove,  no  rest  I  here  can  find, 
Which  makes  me  to  go  forward  more  inclined, 

That,  if  by  any  means  I  may  obtain 

The  rest  which  for  God's  people  doth  remain. 

Dear  brother,  pray  for  me,  that  I  through  grace 
May  safely  reach  that  holy  resting  place, 

Whereof  the  blest  inhabitants  may  say 
That  God  them  thither  led  by  a  right  way. 

Yes,  He  with  skill  them  led  through  march  and  mire, 
Unto  that  place  where  was  their  soul's  desire. 

And  if  my  heart's  desire  was  given  me, 
I  Jesus'  face  eternally  would  see. 

[259] 


CLOUDS       AND       SUNSHINE 


Farewell  forever  then  to  sighs  and  tears, 
These  close  companions  of  my  pilgrim  years, 

And  welcome  joy  and  everlasting  rest, 
Which  only  can  through  Jesus  be  possessed. 


On  the  Death  of  a  Young  Lady 

O  Lord,  Thou  hast  been  pleased  by  death  to  call 
A   daughter  from  her   parents'  fond  embrace; 

But  as  Thy  consolations  are  not  small, 
Sufficient  to  their  trial  make  Thy  grace. 

'Tis  true  the  family  circle  broke  hath  been, 

And   through   death's  gates   a  child  beloved  hath 
gone, 

Whose  parents  the  bereavement  must  feel  keen; 
But  from  death's  ravages  exempt  are  none. 

For  come  it  must  to  all,  but  happy  they 
Who  yet  in  life  a  share  in  Christ  secured; 

Then  death  to  them,  come  how  and  when  it  may, 
For  Heaven's  mansions  is  their  soul  matured. 

And  did  she  not  give  evidence  of  grace? 

Sure  all  her  illness  was  with  patience   borne; 
And  may  we  not  hope  that  she's  in  that  place 

Where   friend   from  friend   by   death   no   more   is 
torn? 

Fond  parents,  think  on  this  and  do  not  grieve 
As   those   who  have   no   hope  —  your   daughter's 
well; 

That  she's  in  glory  now  do  you  believe? 

Then  from  your  hearts  repining  thoughts   expel. 

Remember  that  to  you  she  was  but  lent, 
And  what  God  lends  to  us  recall  He  may; 

So  when  her  days  were  numbered,  death  He  sent 
The  flower  to  transplant  to  endless  day. 

Surelv  you  would  not  wish  to  keep  her  here 
If  God  has  work  for  her  to  do  in  bliss; 

Then  for  her  when  you  drop  affection's  tear 
The  rod  in  token  of  submission  kiss. 

[260] 


CLOUDS       AND       SUNSHINE 


I  with  bereavements  well  acquaint  have  been, 
I  understand  the  feelings  of  the  heart 

When  death  is  by  its  wondrous  working  seen, 
And  we  are  called  with  friends  beloved  to  part. 

If  we  are  Christ's,  we  must  take  up  His  cross 
And  follow  Him  where  He  is  pleased  to  lead; 

The  Lord  to  you  make  up  your  daughter's  loss, 
And  is  she  lost?  No,  but  from  suffering  freed. 

To  father,  mother,  brothers,  sisters  fond, 
Thy  sweetest  consolations,  Lord,  be  given; 

Why  for  their  loved  one  grieve  if  she's  beyond 
Both  sin  and  suffering,  safe  with  Thee  in  Heaven? 


'Thou,  God,  Seest  Me" 

When  aught  does  grieve  or  give  me  pain, 

Lord,  let  me  cling  to  Thee; 
And  in  the  face  of  doubts  maintain 

That  "Thou,  God,  seest  me." 

I  know  all  things  Thou  dost  espy 

Within  the  land  and  sea, 
But  is  it  with  a  gracious  eye 

That  "Thou,  God,  seest  me?" 

A  gracious  look  Thou  givest  Thine  own, 

And  Thine  own   may  I  be; 
That  I  may  though  all  else  be  flown 

Say,  "Thou,  God,  seest  me." 

Although  from  this  heart  friendship's  bands 

By  death  should  severed  be, 
A  friend  in  Jesus'  person  stands,. 

And  "Thou,  God,  seest  me." 

And  when  my  water  is  all  spent, 

A  fresh  supply  I'll  see; 
For  mercies  in  abundance  vent 

Through  "Thou,  God,  seest  me." 

Earth's  things  are  changing  at  the  best, 
All  things  doth  change  but  Thee; 

My  weary  soul  alone  can  rest 
In   "Thou,   God,  seest  me." 

[261] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Naught  happeneth  to  me  by  chance, 

All  is  by  Thy  decree; 
So  unbelief  need  not  advance, 

For  "Thou,  God,  seest  me." 

My  sins  which  legion  I  may  call, 

Shall  all  forgiven  be; 
And  from  Thy  grace  I  shall  not  fall, 

For  "Thou,  God,  seest  me." 

This  thought  should  ever  check  my  grief 

When  I  affliction  see, 
That  for  me  there  is  still  relief 

In  "Thou,  God,  seest  me." 

If  in  this  life  I  had  my  choice 

Of  all  its  joys  or  Thee, 
I  hope  my  soul  would  lift  her  voice 

For  "Thou,  God,  seest  me." 

For  if  its  pleasures  I  possessed, 

Engaging  though  they  be, 
They  could  not  cheer  me  when  depressed 

Like  "Thou,  God,  seest  me." 

And  when  this  pilgrim  life  is  o'er, 

And  death  must  tasted  be, 
O   let  my  ransomed  spirit  soar 

To  "Thou,  God,  seest  me." 


My  Little  Book 

This  book  now  to  me  presented, 

Formerly  belonged  to  one 
Who  from  life's  scenes  is  absented, 

Yes,  long  since  from  earth  she's  gone. 

Its  fair  charge  the  grave  is  keeping, 
There  in  peace  her  clay  doth  rest; 

Where  no  eye  is  dim  with  weeping, 
Where  no  sorrow  aches  the  breast. 

Death  hath  claimed  its  former  owner, 
And  its  present  soon  shall  be 

Claiming,  like  as  He  hath  thrown  her 
In  the  grave,  so  shall  He  me, 

[262  ] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Which,  my  little  book,  another 

Change  to  thee  no  doubt  will  make, 

When  a  sister  or  fond  brother 
Shall  thee  safe  keep  for  my  sake. 


To  God  I  Commit  the  Cause 

0  God,  to  Thee  I  would  appeal 
When  falsehood  seemeth  to  prevail; 
By  liars  made  the  breaches  heal, 

Thy  injured  folk  are  weeping; 
Misrepresented   which   have   been 
As  well  Thine  holy  eyes  have  seen, 
Against  such  do  Thy  people  screen, 

Silence  make  those  be  keeping. 

When  Satan  once  hath  forged  a  lie, 
One   of  his  trusty  servants  by, 
The  rest  doth  raise  the  hue  and  cry, 

As  if  a  thousand  voices 
Could  make  one  lie  appear  true; 

1  grant  they  much  can  change  its  hue, 
But  cannot  alter't  in  God's  view, 

Which  much  my  soul  rejoices. 

Yes,  I'm  rejoiced  that  Satan  can't 
God  prejudice  against  a  saint, 
Though  he  complaint  after  complaint 

Against  the  same  is  making; 
Of  slanders  which  the  wicked  heap 
Upon  His  people,  God  doth  keep 
A   reckoning,  and  schemes,  though  deep 

Laid,  He  shall  yet  be  shaking. 

God  doth  the  truth  of  liars  tell,  . 
And  that  is  that  they  must  in  hell 
With  Satan  and  his  friends  still  dwell, 

If  not  in  time  prevented. 
Then  learn  to  speak  truth  while  you  may, 
Lest  you  shall  in  another  day 
Find  of  transgressors  hard's  the  way, 

By  dying  unrepented. 

I  am  not  speaking  to  expose, 
For  less  I  blame  than  pity  those 

[263] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


That's  wilfully  incurring  woes 

From  which  we  can't  relieve  them. 
O  that  God's  Grace  would  such  reclaim 
And  make  them  of  themselves  think  shame, 
Then  they  our  sympathy  might  claim 
When  we  could  once  believe  them. 


Eighteen  Sixty-Six 


November  eighteen  sixty-six 

Is  come  and  still  I  live, 
Thank  God  for  all  the  mercies  which 

I  from  His  hand  receive. 

I  cannot  work,  I  am  so  weak, 

Yet  God's  so  good  to  me, 
He  sends  me  everything  I  need 

And  I  should  thankful  be. 

The  mercies  which  I  do  enjoy 
Prove  God  to  be  most  kind, 

He  must  be  Love  else  He  would  not 
Such  a  poor  creature  mind. 

God  ever  giveth  like   Himself, 
That's  why  so  much  I  get; 

O  that  I  still  could  praise  His  Name 
And  never,  never  fret! 

My  own  unworthiness  should  keep 
Me  patient  when  I'm  tried; 

Trials  yield  valuable  fruit 
If  they  are  sanctified. 

In  godliness  there  is  a  gain 
That's  worth  the  being  sought, 

For  even  crosses  sent  in  love 
Must  be  with  mercy  fraught. 

November   eighteen   sixty-seven 

I  may  not  live  to  see, 
But  death,  repulsive  in  itself, 

In  Christ  would  welcome  be. 


[264] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


On  Sadness 

Somewhat  sadder  now  I  feel 
Than  I   did  some  time  ago; 

Lord,  this  broken  heart  do  heal, 
Cheerfulness  on  me  bestow. 

To  be  buried  still  in  gloom 

Is  what  Christians  should  not  be, 

Living  men  thrown  in  the  tomb 
We  would  shudder  for  to  see. 

Yet  how  many  buried  are 

While  in  life  and  with  their  will 

'Neath  the  rubbish  they  prepare, 
When  they  active  might  be  still. 

Stupid,  dull  and  lazy  grown, 
Anything  but  work  for  them; 

How  can  life  by  those  be  known 
Who  lose  time,  its  precious  gem? 

And  would  I  inactive  be, 

Who  for  that  do  others  blame; 

Yes,  I'm  to  a  great  degree, 
But  unsought  to  me  it  came. 

Many  bitter  sighs  and  tears 
Hath  my  being  so  me  cost, 

Many  hopes  I've  had  and  fears 
If  or  not  I'll  get  strength  lost. 

Still  there's  something  I  may  dp, 
Though  my  strength  reduced  is  far, 

Duties  which  I  may  pursue, 
Duties  suiting  me  there  are. 

Working,  though  a  duty  great, 
God  is  pleased  me  to  deny; 

Then  I  feel  'tis  mine  to  wait, 
Therefore   to   wait  well   I'll   try. 

Yes,  my  soul  to  wait  is  Thine, 
And  a  privilege  reckon't  to, 

Which  on  duty's  face  let  shine, 
And  'twill  give't  a  sweeter  hue. 

[265] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

Yes,  'twill  give  a  softer  touch 
To  each  feature,  seeming  hard; 

Nor  I  think  can  I  too  much 
Duty  in  this  way  regard. 

Many  things  we've  hard  to  bear, 

Trials  many  to  surmount; 
E'en  when  called  to  duty  rare, 

Privileges  still  let  us  count. 

In  the  fiery  furnace  thrown 

When  we  are,  if  we're  the  Lord's, 

That  shall  be  consumed  alone 

Which  bound  us,  the  mere  cords; 

God  shall  come  and  save  us  so 

We'll   no   injury  sustain, 
Turn  the  fire  upon  the  foe 

And  our  right  and  cause  maintain. 

Privileges    will    in    this    way 

Reckon  more  than  many  think; 
Lord,  the  cup  Thou  givest  may 

I  with  true  submission  drink. 

Thou  the  Christian's  path  mark'st  out, 

Fully  may  I  follow  Thee; 
Going  not  to  change't  about, 

But  straightforward  may  it  be. 

To  a  Young  Friend  Who  Was 
Preparing  for  the  Ministry 

My  friend,  ere  life  be  ended  — 

And  it  seems  well  nigh  run  — 
I  know  I  had  intended 

To  thank  my  friends,  each  one. 

And  it  would  be  ungrateful 

If  I  did  you  forget; 
Ingratitude  is  hateful, 

My  mind's  against  it  set. 

You  have  been  sympathizing 
With  me,  and  now  I  would 

[266] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Thank  you   for   exercising 
Your  kindness,  as  I  should. 

Of  friendship  every  token 

I  value,  leaf  and  stem, 
Yet  I  had  rather  spoken 

My  thanks  than  written  them, 

For  I  have  not  a  treasure 

Of  education  got, 
And  seeing  you  the  pleasure 

Again  I  may  have  not. 

Of   gratitude   no   showing 

Expect  we  from  thee; 
I  feel  my  strength  is  going, 

And  therefore  wrote  I  have. 

I  wish  I  could  write  better, 
But  please  accept  this  scrawl, 

Which  leaves  me  still  your  debtor 
The  gift  however  small, 

That  friendship's  hand  hath  given 
Remembered  still  must  be; 

I  hope  my  friends  in  Heaven 
I'll  all  together  see. 

I  may  be  first  in  glory, 
But  you  shall  follow  when 

Awhile  salvation's  story 

You'll  have  proclaimed  to  men. 

And  if  to  be  a  preacher 
God  shall  indeed  you  call, 

His  Spirit  be  your  teacher, 
And  then  you  prosper  shall. 

And  when  this  sought-for  honor 
Shall  be  conferred  on  you, 

Do  not  forget  the  donor, 
But  to  His  cause  be  true. 


You  have  got  talents  many, 
Them  for  the  Master  use; 

To  hide  He  gives  not  any, 
Nor  any  to  abuse. 

[267] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Each  servant  this  kind  Master 

Doth  tenderly  regard, 
But  to  the  faithful  pastor 

He'll  give  a  rich  reward. 

I  speak  as  if  already 

The  pulpit  you  were  in; 
The  gospel  preaching  steady, 

No  quarter  giving  sin. 

All  are  not  sons  of  thunder 
The  gospel  who  proclaim, 

But  all  should  grace  be  under 
Who  speak  in  Jesus'  Name. 

They  preach  themselves,  not  Jesus, 
Who  fond  are  of  display; 

A  flowery  sermon  pleases, 
And  even  profit  may. 

But  I  for  one  would  rather 
Aside  truth  painted  throw; 

I  would  prefer  to  gather 

Truth's  flowers  as  they  grow. 

God's  Word,  so  varigated 
With  all  that's  rich  and  fine, 

Himself  hath   dedicated 
To  purposes  divine. 

And  as  it  is  resplendent 

With  everything  that's  good, 

Its  beauty  is  transcendent  — 
O  that  I  tell  it  could! 

Truth  in  itself  unfading, 
Is  made  to  change  its  hue, 

When  men  begin  a  shading 
To   bring   out   something  new. 

By  some  the  truth's  deserted 
Because  the  light  they  hate, 

By  others  quite  perverted 
To  prop  a  pious  cheat. 

But  better  things  persuaded 
We  are,  my  friend,  of  you; 

[268] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Truth  needs  not  to  be  shaded, 
But  ought  to  have  its  due. 

The  truth  as  it's  in  Jesus 
Is  just  enough  to  preach, 

By  this  our  God  it  pleases 
The  heart  of  man  to  reach. 

Your  friends  themselves   do  flatter, 
You  would  yourself  ignore, 

The  standing  up  to  chatter 
An  audience  before. 

Your  knowledge   is  extensive 

(At  least  I  think  it  so), 
Through  language  comprehensive 

Do  your  ideas  flow. 

In   short,  you're  calculated, 

As  far  as  I  can  see, 
With  grace  communicated, 

A  pastor  good  to  be. 

But  where  there  is  a  pastor 
That's  worthy  of  the  name, 

The  glory  of  his  Master 
He  makes  his  highest  aim. 

For  Christ's  crown  gems  to  gather 
Is  worth  a  preacher's  while, 

And  should  be  studied  rather 
Than  how  to  get  fame's  smile. 

A  pastor  is  expected 

Both  sheep  and  lambs  to  feed; 
And  none  should  be  neglected, 

All  to  be  fed  have  need. 

The  poor-neglecting  pastor, 

Whatever  else  he  be, 
Heie  follows  not  the  Master, 

Is  not  Christ-like  you  see. 

You'll  wonder  what's  the  reason 
That  I  am  speaking  thus; 

It  seems  quite  out  of  season, 
This  matter  to  discuss. 

[269] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

Of  thanks  a  few  expressions 

Is  all  I  did  intend; 
Then  whence  come  these  digressions 

You  well  may  ask,  my  friend. 

Perhaps  words  without  knowledge 

You'll  say  I   multiply; 
This  would  not  do  in  college, 

But  here's  my  reply: 

Although  with  little  learning 

I  thought  to  write  to  you 
My  thanks,  and  then  concerning 

A  pastor's  duty,  too. 

Thought  after  thought  presented 

Itself,  'till  now  I  see, 
Order  uncomplimented 

The  slip  hath  given  me. 

I  from  my  subject  wandered, 

I  honestly  confess, 
But  thoughts  of  talents  squandered 

Hath  made  me  to  digress. 

A    pastor's    high   position 

Upon  my  mind  hath  weighed, 
And  therefore  this  addition 

I  to  my  song  have  made; 

For  I  was  not  intending 

Upon  these  points  to  touch; 
You  know,  on  grace  depending, 

A  pastor  can  do  much. 

God  show  you  still  what's  duty, 

And  keep  you  in  the  same; 
Consistency  is  beauty, 

At  which  we  all  should  aim. 

For  working  some  are  fitted, 

With  waiting  some  are  tried; 
But  cither's  well  requited 

If  God  be  glorified. 

Though  circumstances  vary, 
And  prospects  vary,  too; 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


God  never  works  contrary 
To  what  He  wills  to  do. 

I'm  sure  you  would  not  barter 
The  prospect  which  you  have, 

For  gain  from  any  quarter; 
Mine's  all  beyond  the  grave. 

Myself  I  cannot  flatter 
In  life  long  to  be  spared, 

Nor  can  it  be  much  matter 
To  die  if  I'm  prepared. 

For  I'm  a  burthen  rather 
Than  useful  to  my  friends, 

But  so  a  loving  Father 

Hath  willed  it  for  wise  ends. 

My  friends  are  not  complaining 
For  all  that  they  have  done; 

I'm  useless,  that's  my  meaning, 
For  aught  beneath  the  sun. 

For  any  work  whatever 
Unfit  I  long  have  been, 

And  work  again  shall  never  — 
Yet  why  for  this  complain? 

I  feel  my  strength  is  going, 

As  I  have  said  before, 
But  dare  not  murmur,  knowing 

That  Christ  my  griefs  hath  bore. 

Death  looks  not  always  frightful, 
When  Christ  is  in  the  case; 

The  prospect  is  delightful  — 
All  this  is  wrought  by  grace. 

And  if  of  grace  a  subject, 
The  rest  well  bore  may  be; 

Life's  not  without  an  object 
If  Jesus  died  for  me. 

For  me,  too,  He  hath  risen, 

A  risen  Lord,  if  mine, 
My  soul  from  its  poor  prison 

Will  take  with  Him  to  shine. 

[271  ] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


To  Him  my  ransomed  spirit 
In  rapture  will  ascend, 

These  good  things  to  inherit 
Which  shall  endure,  my  friend. 

Where  every  heart  is  gladness 
To  meet  you  I'll  be  glad, 

For  who  can  think  of  sadness 
Where  all  in  joy  are  clad? 


Assurance— 

Lines  by  Sister  C. 

My  closet,  when  my  God  sees  meet 
Me  to  remove  from  thee, 

My  soul  hath  this  assurance  sweet  - 
As  sweet  it  needs  must  be: 

That  I  shall  have  a  mansion  where 
Prayer  shall  give  place  to  praise; 

Here  I  had  grace,  but  glory  there 
I  shall  enjoy  always. 


The  Moment  After  Death 

When  this  pulse  shall  have  ceased  to  beat, 
These  ears  to  hear,  these  eyes  to  see, 

This  brain  to  think,  these  hands  and  feet 
To  move,  where  shall  my  spirit  be? 

When  these  lungs  cease  to  draw  a  breath 
And  life's  blood  in  these  veins  to  flow, 

What  shall  the  moment  after  death 
My  disembodied  spirit  show? 

These,  these  are  thoughts  which  often  strike, 
And  oft  has  struck  upon  my  mind; 

And  fancy  on  the  future  likes 
To  dwell,  as  if  a  rest  to  find. 

But  is  my  faith  as  active  now, 

As  then  my  soul  would  joyful  be? 

When  death  o'ershadowed  hath  this  brow, 
Lord  take  my  spirit  home  to  Thee. 

[272  ] 


C   L   O   U   D   S      AND       SUNSHINE 


Yes,  take  it  home,  that  it  may  rest 
From  all  that  troubled  it  before; 

Give  it  a  place  among  the  blest, 
A  mansion  on  that  peaceful  shore. 

My  hope  of  life  I  would  not  sell 

For  all  this  world  can  bestow, 
A  triumph  over  death  and  hell 

Is  what  my  spirit  longs  to  know. 

And  know  it  yet  my  spirit  shall, 

For  God,  the  Promiser,  is  true; 
And  whom  He  unto  grace  doth  call, 

He  will  to  glory  carry  through. 

Now  is  it  not  worth  while  to  bear 

With  patience  what  God's  pleased  to  send? 

If  we'll  in  glory  have  a  share, 
Our  trials  shall  in  triumph  end. 


A  Friend's  Return 

O  Lord,  another  proof  we  have 

That  Thou  for  us  dost  care, 
In  that  Thou  in  the  sea  a  grave 

For  ours  didst  not  prepare. 

While  some  are  called  friends  to  lament 
That's  perished  'neath  the  wave, 

My  thanks  I  am  called  to  present 
To  God  Who  mine  did  save. 

And  now  accept  the  humble  praise 

Which  gratitude  commands, 
Me  to  Thy  Holy  Name  to  raise; 

Thy  word  unbroken  stands. 

For  unbelief  excuse  there's  none; 

Why  harbor  it  at  all, 
Since  God's  Word  and  God's  Word  alone 

Not  to  the  ground  can  fall? 

'Tween  two  opinions  if  to  halt 

I  feel  my  self  inclined, 
Not  God's,  but  mine,  must  be  the  fault, 

For  He  is  of  one  mind. 

[273] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

But  man  by  Nature  to  God's  law 

A  rebel  staunch  and  stout, 
Even  when  grace  his  heart  doth  draw, 

Is  given  much  to  doubt. 

And  of  my  doubting  I'm  ashamed, 

And  of  my  sinful  fear; 
I  know  for  this  I'm  to  be  blamed, 

Though  when  faith's  eye  is  clear, 

I  think  I'll  never  doubt  again; 

O   Lord,  my  faith  increase; 
To  unbelief  give  not  the  rein, 

Sufficient  make  Thy  grace. 

For  me  and  for  my  friends,  each  one, 

Whom  I'd  leave  in  Thy  hand, 
For  to  protect  them  there  is  none 

But  Thee  by  sea  or  land. 

That  Jesus  lives  should  be  enough 

All  doubting  to  suspend, 
When  winds  are  high  and  sea  is  rough, 

His  mercy  to  extend. 

Now  in  our  elder  Brother's  hand 
I'd  leave  my  friend  most  dear; 

That  Pilot  which  to  Canaan's  land 
Can,  and  can  only,  steer. 


To  the  Cuckoo 

Whence  comest  thou,  stranger? 

From  what  distant  part 
Hast  hither  from  danger 

Been   made   to   resort? 

For  no  depredation 

Art  thou  on  thy  flight; 

E'en   in   contemplation 
No  man  rob'st  of  right. 

Of  law  no   suspension 

Thy  high-toned  voice  seeks, 

An  honest  intention 
Thy  language  bespeaks. 


[274] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Though  oft  I  did  hear  thee 

Ere  now  at  thy  song, 
Yet  never  so  near  me 

I've  seen  thee  so  long. 

On  the  branch  there  thou  sittest 

With  music  so  true, 
No   blunder  committest 

In  singing  cuckoo. 

That  thou'rt  come,  the  reason 

I   do   know  right  well; 
Of  the  summer  season, 

Thou'rt  come  us  to  tell. 

And  of  the  sweet  voices 
Which  falls  on  my  ear, 

It  just  now  rejoices 
Me  most  thine  to  hear. 

Such  fond  recollection 
To  mind  thou  dost  bring, 

I  tears  of  affection 

Could  weep  while  you  sing. 

Since  first  on  my  hearing 
Thy  sweet  tones  did  fall, 

Death  hence  hath  been  bearing 
My  friends  at  His  call. 

Of  childhood  companions 

But   few   now  remain; 
While  in  death's  dominions, 

I  weep  o'er  the  slain. 

In  different  places 

My  lot  hath  been  cast, 

But  life  like  a  race  is 
Which  soon  must  be  past. 

And   little   it   matters 
Where  run  is  the  race, 

If  loosed  Satan's  fetters 
Be  from  us  by  grace. 

Through  no  vain  predictions 
The   Christian   knows, 

[275] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


His  fight  of  afflictions 
Shall  reach  to  a  close. 

Though  injured,  forgiving, 
By  works  he  proves  faith; 

He's  dying  while  living, 
And  live  shall  in  death. 

Strength  may  I  receiving 
Be,  daily  from  grace, 

That  I  through  believing 
May  run  out  the  race. 

Be   never   repining 

Whatever  befall, 
But  cheerful  resigning 

To  Jesus,  my  All. 

And  sometimes  with  sorrow, 
When  nigh  swallowed  up, 

From  hope  let  me  borrow 
Of  joy  a  sweet  cup. 

Grief  is  no  light  matter, 

However  supprest, 
When  poured  out  like  water 

It  is  in  the  breast. 

But  why  be  relating 
My  sorrows  to  thee, 

When  thou  art  repeating 
Thy  sweet  song  to  me. 

Interrupt  thee  I  will  not, 
I  feel  'twould  be  wrong; 

Of  singing  thou'st  skill  got, 
Go  on  with  thy  song. 

Sweet  herald  of  summer, 

I  pray  thee  renew 
The  heart-welcome  rumor, 

Repeat  thy  cuckoo. 

With  pleasure  I'll  listen, 
'Twill  give  me  much  joy; 

Away   then   don't   hasten, 
I  won't   thee  annoy. 

[276] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Thy  present   position 
O  keep  on  the  tree, 

My  feathered  musician, 
Till  tired  I  be. 

Joy  mingled  with  sorrow 
That  instant  I  knew, 

As  off  like  an  arrow 
My  visitant  flew. 

It  left  me  my  pleasures 
And  griefs  to  recount, 

And  so  I  took  measures 
To  get  the  amount. 

And  then  this  conclusion, 
In  God's  strength  I  drew; 

Nor  is  it  delusion, 
But  happily  true: 

Through  losses,  diseases, 
Or  what  else  we  meet, 

An  interest  in  Jesus 

Makes  everything  sweet. 


'Lie  Not  One  to  Another" 

If  only  what  we  do  profess 

Of  godliness,  is  all 
We  in  reality  possess, 

The  whole  amount  is  small. 

We  may  profess  like  angels  fair, 
And  yet  that  cloak  beneath 

Strive  to  pass  off  the  foulest  ware 
That  counterfeit  can  faith. 

A  fair  profession  will  not  do, 
Faith  without  works  is  dead; 

But  empty  shadows  they  pursue 
Who  by  such  faith  is  led. 

Doctrine  to  hold,  however  pure, 
Where  it  is  not  reduced 

To  practice,  is  at  best  but  poor; 
When  hath  it  good  produced? 

[277] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Better  we  nothing  did  profess 

Than  have  it  but  in  name; 
To  hold  truth  in  unrighteousness, 

But  puts  the  truth  to  shame. 

I  oft  have  led  been  to  observe 

The   inconsistency 
Of  those  who  from  the  truth  do  swerve, 

Yet  Christ's  profess  to  be; 

Forgetting  that  all  liars  shall 

Their  portion  have  in  hell; 
Or  if  to  mind  they  do  it  call, 

From  conscience  it  expel. 

Speak  every  man  the  truth  unto 

His  neighbor,  God  doth  say; 
Saints  this  regards  and  speaketh  true, 

But  liars  disobey. 

I'm  well  aware  that  liars  can, 

With  much  effrontery, 
Pass  off  for  truth  their  lies  on  man, 

Though  injured  many  be. 

Why  don't  they  tell  things  as  they  are, 

Or  tell  them  not  at  all? 
To  speak  none  'twould  be  better  far 

Than  that  right  injured  fall. 

My  soul  has  often  troubled  been 

To  see  folk  with  their  will, 
Make  for  their  faults  of  lies  a  screen, 

Their  faults  increasing  still, 

Which  leads  me  very  much  to  doubt 

The  Christianity 
Of  those  who  truth  thus  go  about, 

Professing  though  they  be. 

The  world  still  by  professors  judge, 

Religion  yet  ne'er  through; 
Those  who  at  Satan's  work  do  drudge 

Have  of  it  a  fair  view. 

At  Satan's  work  they'll  be  employed, 
And  as  his  servants  should, 

[278] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Of  principle  right  being  void 
They   are   averse   to   good. 

But  why  put  on  a  mask  of  truth 
When  they  will  not  speak  true, 

Who  unto  age  from  early  youth 
In  private  lies  pursue? 

They  do  put  on  of  truth  the  guise 
That  they  may  have  a  name, 

To  live  in  death  while  their  soul  lies 
Just  next  door  to  hell's  flame. 

Too  much  'mong  followers  professed 
Of  Christ  prevails  this  sin; 

When  shall  they  show  they  it  detest 
The   truth   by  walking   in? 

I  am  acquaint  with  some  whose  life 

Is  blameless  otherwise, 
Whose  tongue  on  each  occasion's  rife 

To  utter  petty  lies. 

And  yet  they  are  accounted  good, 
And  pretty  much  thought  of, 

And  in  their  town  and  neighborhood 
Peaceable  neighbors  prove. 

But  though  the  church  them  recognize 
As  members,  and  their  town 

As  neighbors  peaceable,  on  lies 
The  God  of  Truth  will  frown. 

Death's  sentence  is  on  liars  passed, 

And  executed  shall 
Be;  vengeance  shall  take  them  at  last, 

In  hell  their  portion's  all. 

My  soul  into  their  secret  then 

Come  not,  nor  joined  be 
To  this  assembly  of  men; 

Mine  honor  but  be  free. 

Yes,  from  this  and  all  other  sin, 

My  soul,  get  full  discharge; 
God's  truth  be  daily  walking  in, 

To  thee  His  bounty's  large. 

[279] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

Though  very  sweet  truth's  in  the  ear, 

'Tis  sweeter  in  the  heart, 
And  saints  will  what  they  do  appear 

Be  in  the  inward  part. 

I,  who  am  so  ashamed  to  catch 

Another  in  a  lie, 
My  own  expressions  let  me  watch, 

Conscience  keep  truth  in  eye. 

What  I  lament,  my  God  alone 

Can  cure  in  age  and  youth; 
Yes,  'tis  His  Spirit  which  can  tone 

The  heart  to  speak  the  truth. 

And  send  Thy  Spirit,  Lord,  I  pray 

Into  the  hearts  of  men, 
And  so  in  truth  day  after  day 

They  shall  be  walking  then. 

0  do  the  heavy  heart  relieve 
Which  burdened  is  for  those, 

Who  for  themselves  yet  do  not  grieve, 
Repentance  neither  shows. 

Repentance  is  the  worst  I  wish 

To  those  who  do  speak  wrong; 
Of  mercy  give  them,  Lord,  a  dish, 

For  still  to  save  Thou'rt  strong. 

Love  to  the  Saints 

Thy  servants,  Lord,  I  highly  prize, 
Nor  would  the  least  of  them  despise; 

1  love  their  work,  I  love  their  name, 
I  love  their  end,  I  love  their  aim; 

I  love  them  though   in   poverty 
And  in  affliction  great  they  be; 

Yes,  with  those  I  would  sympathize 
Whose  pathway  through  affliction  lies, 

And  still  in  patience  do  possess 

Their  soul,  and  Christ  through  all  confess. 

[280] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Suffering  or  not  beneath  the  rod, 
I  love,  I  love  the  child  of  God. 

But  though  I  love  the  heirs  of  grace, 
Let  me  not  put  them  in  God's  place. 

The  creature  let  me  ne'er  pursue 
With  what  is  the  Creator's  due. 


My  Times  Are  in  Thy  Hand 

My  God,  my  times  are  in  Thy  hand, 
The  number  of  my  months  is  set; 

How  many  I  can't  understand, 

But  just  what  pleases  God  I'll  get. 

Time  comes  and  goes,  and  what  have  we 

Been  doing,  God  to  glorify; 
Our  lives  lived  over  cannot  be, 

Away  with  time  our  days  do  fly. 

Now  sixty-six  its  exit  makes, 
And  that  gives  place  to  sixty-seven; 

Our  moments  vanish  like  snowflakes, 

But  Christ  is  mine  and  death  brings  Heaven. 

And  God  prepare  me  for  that  change 
Which  may,  indeed,  be  very  near; 

The  work  is  Thine,  the  way  is  strange, 
And  I'm  nigh  sick  of  living  here. 

I  long  to  be  among  the  blest, 

Of  lovely  Christ  to  have  my  fill; 

And  thanks  to  God  there  is  a  rest, 
Where  pleasure  I  shall  have  at  will. 


To  a  Christian  Lady 

My  friend,  being  long  in  death's  valley, 
And  thinking  you've  entered  it,  too, 

I  therefore  intended  a  letter 
To  write  as  I  best  could  to  you. 

I  gladly  would  speak  well  of  Jesus, 
And  all  His  perfections  commend; 

[281] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


But  though  I've  been  with  the  refiner 
For  years  together,  my  friend, 

I  have  little  to  show  for  the  trouble  — 
So  to  speak  —  Christ  is  taking  with  me ; 

But  I  hope  He  will  never  give  over 
Till  His  image  in  my  soul  He'll  see. 

What  Christ  of  His  yoke  and  His  burden 

Doth  testify,  I  can  subscribe; 
Though  unbelief,  quite  the  contrary, 

To  say  Satan  often  would  bribe. 

My  heart  between  hoping  and  doubting 
Is  often  brought  nigh  to  a  stand; 

Then  faith  goes  in  search  for  a  promise, 
And  brings  Eschol  grapes  in  its  hand, 

Of  which  when  my  poor  soul  hath  tasted, 

My  spirits  are  quickly  revived; 
Indeed,  I'm  unable  to  tell  you 

What  good  from  those  grapes  I've  derived. 

But  I  am  determined,  while  ever 

In  Eschol  a  grape  can  be  found, 
However  with  sorrow  beleagured, 

My  feasting  and  joy  will  abound. 

I  know  if  I  won't  go  to  Heaven 
God's  way,  I  can  never  go  there; 

But  I  feel  I  can  say,  Christ's  my  portion, 
And  that  bolts  the  door  on  despair. 

I  presume  that  a  word  spoke  in  season, 

Acceptable  would  be  to  you; 
And  so  I  would  like  to  be  speaking 

If,  but  how  to  do  it,  I  knew. 

I  regret  that  our  little  acquaintance 

Has  left  me  so  little  to  say; 
But  rejoice  that  as  fellow  believers, 

We  walking  must  be  the  same  way. 

I  know  that  you  are  not  a  stranger 

To  troubles  of  many  a  kind; 
A  widow,  and  as  it  were,  childless, 

And  now  to  a  sick-room  confined. 

[282] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


And  how  do  you  like  your  affliction? 

Is  Christ  all  you  took  Him  to  be? 
Art  thou  in  the  furnace  improving? 

Is  grace  still  sufficient  for  thee? 

You  cannot,  you  cannot  imagine 
How  often  I'm  thinking  of  you; 

How  it  goes  between  Christ  and  your  spirit, 
I  would  be  so  glad  if  I  knew. 

Unbelief,  I  dare  say,  will  be  speaking 
Of  Christ  what  you  dare  not  believe; 

And  Satan  in  order  to  have  you, 
Will  try  to  the  last  to  deceive. 

He  doubtless  hath  many  devices, 

To  any  of  which  lest  you  yield, 
Watch  and  pray  for  the  time  is  approaching 

You'll  see  him  quite  drove  from  the  field. 

Hold  on,  fear  not,  Christ  hath  conquered, 
And  in  Him  you  conquer  will,  too; 

None  have  been  elected  to  perish, 
If  God  to  His  promise  be  true. 

And  He  is  the  True  and  the  Faithful, 
And  so  you  have  found  Him  to  be; 

Then  on  your  Beloved  still  be  leaning, 
There's  plenty  of  succor  for  thee. 

Christ  loves  to  the  end  all  who  trust  Him, 
He's  more  than  a  husband  to  you; 

Then  let  not  your  heart  be  discouraged, 
For  surely  He'll  bring  you  safe  through. 

Safe  through  that  mysterious  river, 
Which  bridgeless  and  bottomless  is 

To  those  who  have  no  share  in  Jesus, 
And  hence  none  whatever  in  bliss. 

If  you  are  to  Jesus  united, 

He's  bound  to  look  after  His  own; 

He  holds  Himself  bound  by  His  promise, 
In  death  He'll  not  leave  you  alone. 

I  know  it  is  easy  prescribing 

But  hard  what  is  right  still  to  do; 

[283] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


However,  if  sad,  my  advice  is 

Remember  what  Christ  is  to  you. 

Cheer  up,  cheer  up,  for  death's  valley 
Is  sweeter  than  many  suppose; 

Christ  having  bestrewed  it  with  flowers, 
A  perfume  refreshing  it  throws. 

A  little  while  and  you'll  be  with  Him, 
As  safe  as  a  saved  soul  can  be; 

And  long  it  won't  be  till  I'll  follow, 
For  Jesus  is  sending  for  me. 

I  believe  that  we'll  yet  see  each  other 
In  time,  though  we  never  may  meet; 

In  Heaven  there's  nothing  to  suffer, 
All's  happiness  lengthened  and  sweet; 

And  when  we'll  have  met  once  in  glory, 
What  wonders  of  grace  we  can  tell 

Concerning  God's  bringing  us  thither 
Through  manifold  trials.    Farewell! 

On  the  Death  of  a  Young  Girl 

And  Annie,  have  you  gone  to  sleep? 

And  is  your  spirit  fled,  indeed, 
To  where  they  neither  sigh  nor  weep? 

Our  sympathy  you  do  not  need, 

Because  you  are  where  sin  and  grief 
Will  never  be  allowed  a  place; 

The  story  of  your  life  is  brief, 
But  now  you  are  in  better  ease. 

Your  friends  may  weep  that  you  are  gone, 
Because  they  cannot  see  you  here; 

But  if  they  saw  your  white  robe  on, 
I'm  sure  they  would  not  drop  a  tear. 

I  think  they  rather  would  rejoice 
To  see  what  honor  Christ  hath  put 

Upon  the  people  of  His  choice, 

Which  your  companions  constitute. 

How  glorious  now  must  be  your  state, 
What  happiness  to  be  in  bliss! 

[284] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

To  know  I  must  a  little  wait  — 
But  Annie  your's  fruition  is. 

It's  good  for  you  to  be  so  far 
Beyond  the  reach  of  pain  and  sin; 

And  when  I  shall  be  as  you  are, 
Our  long  acquaintance  will  begin. 

For  though  one  congregation  we 
Belonged  to,  we've  not  been  acquaint, 

But  so  it  shall  not  always  be  — 
I  long  to  talk  to  every  saint. 

To  ask  them  who  and  what  they  were, 
What  joys  and  sorrows  they  have  had; 

To  hear  them  God's  grace  declare 
For  having  them  with  glory  clad. 

For  ought  I  know  it  may  indeed 

Be  part  of  their  blest  exercise 
Each  other's  history  to  read 

Where  all  have  got  enlightened  eyes. 

Here  we  misspell,  miscall,  mistake, 
We  scarce  can  read  ourselves  aright; 

But  when  in  glory  we  awake, 
We'll  see  all  in  a  better  light. 

For  then  we'll  see  as  we  are  seen, 
And  know  exactly  as  we're  known, 

Nor  shall  we  once  have  to  complain 
Of  faults  which  here  we  must  own. 

For  such  a  state  of  things  I  long 
As  Annie  with  her  God  enjoys; 

Here  sometimes  right,  and  sometimes  wrong, 
Makes  and  unmakes,  builds  and  destroys. 

I  oft  have  longed  to  be  beyond 
The  giving  and  the  getting  pain; 

Those  things  of  which  I  am  most  fond 
I  never  can  on  earth  obtain; 

But  long  for  them  I  must  and  will, 

Faith  knows  that  glory  follows  grace; 

My  share  of  glory  I  would  spill 
If  I  might  have  it  in  this  place. 

[285] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


It  is  reserved  and  that  is  best, 
Hope  as  an  anchor  I  have  got, 

So  can  look  forward  to  my  rest 
Though  I'm  now  like  a  broken  pot; 

I  cannot  praise,  I  cannot  pray, 
I  cannot  work,  I  cannot  wait; 

I  can  do  nothing  I  may  say, 

But  helpless  lie  at  mercy's  gate. 

Though  in  God's  service  I  delight, 
I'm  wanting  where  I  should  abound; 

Alas!  I  can  do  nothing  right  — 
This  to  be  fact  I've  always  found. 

But,  Annie,  how  are  you  employed 
While  I  am  lying  useless  here? 

The  want  of  what  you  have  enjoyed 
Draws  from  me  a  half-jealous  tear. 

For  thinking  o'er  your  joy  and  peace 
And  that  of  your  companions,  too, 

Has  made  my  longing  to  increase; 
O  to  be  praising  God  with  you! 

O  to  associate  with  those 

Whose  blood-washed  robes  forever  shine 
Where  friendship  to  perfection  grows! 

And  shall  this  luxury  be  mine? 

Yes,  Annie,  we  shall  shortly  meet 

Where  even  strangers  will  be  friends, 

For  Jesus  is  the  center  sweet 

Of  friendship  where  it  never  ends. 

And,  Annie,  where  such  friendships  are, 
You  went  while  it  was  early  noon; 

Forever  you  have  crossed  the  bar, 
And  God  will  take  me  over  soon. 

Soon  shall  I  see  those  pleasant  sights 
Which  now  arrest  your  gladdened  gaze, 

Soon  have  with  other  sweet  delights 
The  garment  of  grace  praising  praise. 


[286] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


How  Long 

How  long,  Lord,  in  the  wilderness 

Shall  I  a  mourner  be? 
How  long,  Lord,  with  affliction's  chain 

Wilt  Thou  encircle  me? 

Remember  that  I  am  but  dust, 

And  soon  away  shall  pass; 
Yea,  Thou  dost  know  that  I  am  weak 

And  feeble  as  the  grass. 

And  must  my  song  again  assume 

Its  former  plaintive  tone? 
Am  I  than  others  troubled  more, 

Or  more  disposed  to  moan? 

Perhaps  the  latter  is  the  fact, 

If  so  I  will  complain 
To  Thee,  O  God,  by  Whom  alone 

My  strength  I  can  regain. 

My  troubles  sure  are  manifold 

If  they  would  reckoned  be, 
And  yet  the  smallest  of  them  is 

Not,  Lord,  unknown  to  Thee; 

For  Thou  Who  of  my  head  the  hairs 

A  reckoning  hath  took, 
Will  not,  I  am  convinced,  the  least 

Of  all  my  griefs  o'erlook. 

My  bones,  which  were  not  seen,  stick  out, 

My  joints  are  weak  indeed; 
My  eyes,  alas,  too,  are  so  weak 

I  am  not  fit  to  read. 

I  said  this  is  a  grief,  yet  know 

That  I  the  same  must  bear; 
Thy  Hold  Spirit  grant  me,  Lord, 

My  lonesome  hours  to  cheer. 

For  who  can  lonesome  think  themselves 
To  whom  Thou'rt  pleased  to  give 

Thy  gracious  presence,  and  in  whose 
Heart  Thou  art  pleased  to  live? 

[287] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


And  there  is  naught  worth  living  for, 

But  as  I  live  to  Him, 
Who  hath  my  cup  with  mercy  filled 

Unto  its  very  brim. 

And  if  my  worth  be  reckoned  thus, 

Of  small  worth  must  I  be 
In  His  pure  eyes,  Who  cannot  look 

Upon  iniquity. 

I  have  resolved  once  and  again 

To  keep  in  trim  my  lamp, 
Alas!  I  fear  this  heart  will  draw 

Me  back  to  Satan's  camp. 

I  feel't  so  cold,  so  hard,  so  dead, 

That  oft  to  me  it  seems 
Instead  of  faith  and  hope  I  have 

But  fancy's  fitful  dreams. 

Awake,  O  Spirit  of  the  Lord! 

With  Thy  life-giving  breath 
Breathe  on  my  soul,  else  surely  it 

Will  sleep  the  sleep  of  death. 

And  shall  I  who  have  Christ  professed 

Be  yet  a  castaway? 
These  doubts  and  fears  shall  vanish,  Lord, 

If  Thou  the  word  but  say. 

O  give  me  clearer  views  of  Thee, 

O  strengthen  faith  and  hope! 
And  leave  me  not  midst  doubts  and  fears 

A  cheerless  way  to  grope. 

My  empty  soul  fill  with  Thy  love, 

O  God,  my  hope  and  trust; 
And  let  these  lips  proclaim  Thy  praise, 

Most  merciful  and  just. 

By  nature  I  have  naught  to  boast  — 

I'm  naked,  poor  and  blind; 
But  faith  in  Christ  a  rich  supply 

For  all  my  wants  can  find. 

Again,  blest  Spirit,  I  would  ask 
Thee  to  dwell  in  my  soul, 

[288] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


And  o'er  each  evil  passion  there 
Be  pleased  to  have  control. 

O  sanctify  and  quicken  me, 
Thy  temple  do  me  make, 

And  never  let  my  wandering  feet 
The  way  of  truth  forsake. 

No  heart  so  rebel-like  as  mine, 
So  none  more  needs  Thy  power 

To  conquer  deadly  foes  which  doth 
Beset  it  every  hour. 

In  Jesus'  Blood  from  every  sin 
My  soul  wash  clean  and  white, 

That  perfected  at  death  it  may 
To  God's  Throne  take  its  flight. 


Prayer 

Prayer,  sweet  transporting  exercise, 

Still  may  I  hold  thee  dear; 
Thou  upward  soarer  to  the  skies, 

Thy  voice  God  deigns  to  hear. 

Prayer,  that  in  ages  all  has  done 

Such  feats  on  bended  knee, 
The  more  self-humbling  is  its  tone, 

The  better  heard  'twill  be. 

Prayer,  that  surmounts  impending  heights, 
That  storms  sin's  best  defense; 

It  pleasure  gives  in  worst  of  plights, 
In  God's  omnipotence. 

Prayer  is  the  seed-time  which  to  plant 
And  rear  faith's  tender  shoot, 

And  God  will  buds  and  blossoms  grant, 
And  by  and  by  the  fruit. 

Prayer  finally  doth  prove  full  well 

The  soul's  health  or  decay; 
Where  it  is  practiced  it  doth  tell 

There  sin  bears  not  the  sway. 


[289] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Rejoicing  in  God's  Sovereignty 

Why  should  a  living  man  complain 

For   his   sin's   punishment? 
A  man  that's  out  of  hell's  domain 

Should  ever  be   content. 

If  we  compare  what  we  deserve 

With  what  we  do  enjoy, 
We'd  wonder  God  does  so  preserve 

What  He  might  well  destroy. 

We  do  inhale  with  every  breath 

A  fresh  supply  of  air; 
Was  that  denied,  sure  sudden  death 

Would  stop  short  our  career. 

And  by  ten  thousand  means  and  ways, 

If  we  could  them  but  see, 
His  providential  care  us  stays 

From  total  misery. 

But  selfish,   narrow-minded  man 
Draws  wrong  conclusions  still, 

When  he  though  ignorant  would  scan 
His   Maker's  hidden  will. 

That  of  His  matters  no  account 
Doth  give,  then  why  should  we 

Blindly  presume  to  climb  the  mount 
Of  sacred  mystery? 

Where  He  His  will  reveals,  thereto 
With  care  we  should  attend; 

But  where  He  hides  it  from  our  view, 
Faith  should  on  Him  depend. 

Her  perfect  work  let  patience  have, 

Though  I  should  suffer  till 
Death  calls  me  to  the  narrow  grave  — 

There's  life  on  Zion's  hill. 

O  happy  and  transporting  thought, 
That  there  for  aye  should  be 

A  place  of  rest  by  Christ's  blood  bought, 
Made  over  sure  to  me. 

[290] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


One  moment  in  that  blissful  clime 

Shall  well  repay  for  all 
The  suffering  I  have  had  in  time, 

From  sin,  disease  and  thrall. 

For  there  I'll  see  Him  as  He  is, 

And  hence  like  to  Him  be; 
And  all  the  glory  shall  be  His, 

Who  died  on  Calvary. 

One  welcome  glance  from  His  pure  eye 

Shall  dry  up  every  tear, 
And  gladness  shall  surmount  the  sigh, 

With  joy  my  crown  I'll  wear. 


My  Home 

This  earth  is  not  my  home  — 
Why  should  I  think  it  so? 

My  soul,  thou'rt  of  immortal  birth, 
Dote  not  on  things  below. 

This  earth  is  not  my  home  — 

It  cannot  satisfy 
The   intense   longing   of   my   soul 

For  pure  reality. 

This  earth  is  not  my  home  — 

My  home  it  cannot  be; 
It  is  a  land  of  slaves  to  sin, 

My  home  from  sin  is  free. 

This  earth  is  not  my  home  — 
It's  but  a  scene  of  strife; 

With  sir.,  the  devil  and  the  flesh, 
The  saints  must  fight  for  life. 

This  earth  is  not  my  home  — 

It's  but  a  lodging  place, 
And  while  I'm  here  I  cannot  see 

My  dear  Redeemer's  Face. 

This  earth  is  not  my  home  — 

It's  crucified  to  me, 
And  me  to  it,  then  how  could  two 

Thus  diverse  e'er  agree? 

[291  ] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


But  Heaven  is  my  home  — 

By  faith  I  can  it  see; 
That  land  of  rest  where  each  saint  waves 

A  palm  of  victory. 

Yes,  that's  my  happy  home  — 

Submissive  be  my  soul; 
Thou  here  hast  but  a  taste  of  love, 

Thou'lt  there  enjoy  the  whole. 


Self -Examination 

Can  I  in  truth  say  that  I'm  wed 

To  Christ,  the  church's  living  Head? 

Then  what  proof  do  I  give 
That  I  am  His  and  His  alone, 
That  He  holds  of  my  heart  the  throne, 

And  that  in  Him  I  live? 

As  in  my  Husband's  presence  now, 
How  I  have  kept  my  marriage  vow, 

Let  me  examine,  and 
See  if  I  harbor  in  my  breast 
At  any  time  a  rival  guest 

To  my  Lord  and  Husband. 

His  Word  He  gave  a  rule  whereby 
My  heart  and  life  I  oft  might  try, 

And  see  how  they  agree; 
And  if  I'm  really  what  I  seem, 
Or  is  religion  but  a  dream, 

Or  idle  talk  with  me. 

The  old  man  I  do  ever  find 

To  war  against  the  new  inclined, 

For  when  I  good  would  do 
Evil  is  presently  with  me, 
So  that  my  best  works  I  can't  free 

From  sin's  ungodly  hue. 

How  in  desertion's  gloomy  day 

To  trust  in  Christ  does  faith  delay, 

And  oft  well  nigh  doth  yield; 
In  steps  usurping  unbelief, 
Of  all  my  heart  plagues  sure  the  thief, 

And  dares  to  take  the  field. 

[292] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


When  God  is  pleased  to  send  a  cloud, 
Upon  my  lot  it  cries  aloud, 

In  senses  hearing  still; 
God  doth  not  love  my  soul  else  He 
Would  never  send  adversity, 

But  let  me  have  my  will. 

And  where  would  this  self-will  me  lead, 
For  which  short-sighted  sense  doth  plead? 

Why,  it  would  settle  here, 
And  have  its  good  things  all  on  earth, 
And  spend  its  time  in  joy  and  mirth, 

Regardless  of  God's  fear. 

How  doth  these  armies,  sin  and  grace 
Strive  each  the  other  to  displace? 

My  heart's  the  battlefield; 
Against  the   Spirit  flesh  outbursts, 
The  Spirit  gives  flesh  deadly  thrusts, 

And  its  claim  will  not  yield. 

The  Spirit  from  a  holy  root 
Produces  rich  and  noble  fruit, 

Acceptable  to  God; 
Through  Him  that  loved  us  and  gave 
Himself  for  us  that  He  might  save 

Us  from  His  Father's  rod. 

But  sin  of  most  unholy  seed 
In  time  doth  every  evil  breed, 

It  hath  made  havoc  vast 
Of  man,  and  if  God's  sovereign  grace 
Did  not  save  some,  it  sure  would  place 

Them  all  in  hell  at  last. 

Its  reign  in  unregenerate  hearts 
Is  absolute,  its  killing  darts 

Anon  pass  through  their  soul; 
The  Gospel  does  not  suit  their  pride, 
Because  it  tells  them  Jesus  died 

To  save  from  sin's  control. 

Not  reigning,  but  remaining  sin 
Doth  dwell  the  Christian  within, 

For  Christ  in  them  hath  bruised 
The  serpent's  head,  though  he  may  bite 
Their  heel  with  hellish  rage  and  spite, 

He's  vanquished  and  confused. 

[293] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


To  which  of  these  do  I  belong: 
The  ransomed  or  condemned  throng? 

O  God  me  search  and  try; 
For  Thou  alone  canst  know  the  heart 
And  see  it  in  its  every  part 

With  Thine  all-seeing  eye. 

I  in  my  soul  do  feel  such  jar, 
For  sin  and  grace  is  so  at  war, 

That  which  shall  victor  be 
I'm  ready  often  to  discuss; 
"If  it  be  so,  why  am  I  thus" 

In  such  uncertainty? 

That  is,  if  Christ  hath  for  me  died, 
Why  still  so  ready  to  backslide 

Am  I,  O  Mighty  Love? 
Heal  my  backslidings  and  give  me 
A  sure  and  certain  hope  in  Thee, 

Which  nothing  shall  remove. 

Thy  precious  promise  I  will  plead 
For  grace  to  help  in  time  of  need, 

O  grace,  so  full  and  free! 
If  thou  wert  given  all  in  hand, 
No  soul  would  ever  reach  the  land 

Of  sinless  liberty. 

Although  my  Husband's  rivals  aim 

To  have  me,  they  have  lost  their  claim, 

For  Christ  me  purchased  sure; 
Restraining  and  renewing  grace 
Both  in  the  covenant  have  place, 

That  ever  shall  endure. 


Bereavements 

Cease,  cease  ye  dreams  of  pleasure  for  to  haunt 
My  midnight  slumbers  or  disturb  my  rest, 

Repeated  showers  of  grief  have  nursed  a  plant 
Of  sorrow,  spreading  in  my  aching  breast. 

That  great  destroyer,  Death,  entered  the  fold, 
And  did  not  spare  to  take  some  of  the  sheep; 

[294] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Dear  to  my  memory  though  they  are  enrolled 
With  those  that  in  death's  arms  do  calmly  sleep. 


These  all  are  gone,  and  if  a  single  sigh 

Could  bring  them  back,  that  sigh  I  would  not 
heave, 

A  mansion  each  I  hope  doth  occupy 

In  Paradise,  where  souls  doth  cease  to  grieve. 

We  that  are  left,  like  forest  trees  do  stand, 

Some  are  being  cut  and  some  are  yet  let  grow; 

But  soon  we  all  shall  feel  the  powerful  hand 
That  like  the  woodman's  ax  shall  lay  us  low. 

It  hath  pleased  God  long  to  afflict  my  frame 
With  a  disease  which  may  work  out  my  end, 

But  yet  to  know  from  Whose  good  hand  it  came 
Should  make  me  tranquil  till  He  help  shall  send. 

'Tis  true  I'm  weak,  and  weakness  is  with  me 

Become,  alas!  a  universal  thing; 
Lord  help  me  from  myself  and  sin  to  flee, 

For  sin's  the  source  from  whence  all  sorrow 
springs. 

My  seat  is  empty  in  the  house  of  God, 

The  means  of  grace  I  can  no  more  attend; 

O  that  with  patience  I  could  bear  the  rod 
And  Him  that  hath  appointed  it  to  send! 

My  sun  does  threaten  to  go  down  at  noon, 
Disease  is  serious  when  it  ends  in  death; 

My  flesh  recoils  and  thinks  it  yet  too  soon 
In  morn  of  life  thus  to  yield  up  my  breath. 

But  why  indulge  thus  in  these  plaintive  strains? 

God  doth  the  end  from  the  beginning  see; 
His  providence,  His  promise  still  maintains, 

And  He  will  perfect  what  concerneth  me. 

A  cure  He'll  send  if  mine  be  length  of  days, 
If  death,  O  Holy  Spirit,  end  all  strife; 

Enable  me  to  trust  in  Him  Who  says: 
"I  am  the  Resurrection  and  the  Life." 


[295  ] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

The  Christian's  Farewell  to  the 
Earth 

Farewell  earth  and  all  its  pleasures, 

Scarcely  tasted  till  it's  gone; 
My  soul  would  seek  more  lasting  treasure 

Than  what  is  beneath  the  sun. 

Feelings  press  me  strong  and  stronger 
As  I  draw  each  shortening  breath; 

Farewell,  friends,  I'm  yours  no  longer  — 
I  must  grapple  soon  with  death. 

Yes,  I  see  his  ghastly  figure  — 

Sunken  eye  and  visage  wan, 
And  his  cold  hand  holds  the  dagger 

That  has  made  such  waste  of  man. 

And  shall  not  a  sinner  tremble 
As  death  unto  him  doth  come? 

What  can  this  last  scene  resemble 
Of  the  coffin,  shroud  and  tomb? 

What,  O  what  have  I  been  doing 
With  my  measured  span  of  time? 

Vanity,   alas!  pursuing 

In  this  corresponding  clime. 

Naught  in  all  my  recollection 
Have  I  done  to  brave  this  hour; 

Sins,  and  that  of  black  complexion, 
Is  the  all  I  have  in  store. 

Hark,  I  hear  my  Saviour  speaking 
Words  of  comfort  through  this  gloom, 

He  Whose  promise  is  the  breaking 
Of  the  day  upon  the  tomb: 

"Death's  envenomed  sting  I've  broken, 

I  have  loosed  his  iron  chain, 
And  rose  first,  as  a  true  token, 

That  he  never  can  detain 

"Any  longer  than  My  pleasure, 
My  beloved  folk  from  me; 

[296] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Israel's  My  peculiar  treasure, 

From  the  grave  he'll  ransomed  be. 

"All  have  sinned,  and  hence  corruption 
Every  living  man  must  see; 

But,  O  grave,  I'm  thy  destruction, 
Fear  not,  saints,  you'll  live  with  Me." 

Then,  my  soul,  why  dost  thou  linger? 

Parting  canst  thou  not  endure, 
When  each  sign-post  points  the  finger 

To  yon  place  where  bliss  is  pure? 

Angels  ready  stand  to  greet  thee 

To  thine  everlasting  home; 
Come,  Lord  Jesus,  come  and  meet  me, 

Even  so,  Lord  Jesus,  come! 


Praise 

O  God  in  Christ  accept  the  praise 
My  feeble  soul  to  Thee  would  raise; 

For  countless  mercies  I  enjoy 

Then  let  Thy  praise  my  tongue  employ. 

If  I  could  count  the  grains  of  sand 

Which   doth  compose  the  tide-swept  strand, 

Or  drops  of  water  in  the  sea, 

Or  leaves  upon  each  verdant  tree, 

The  flowers,  yea,  and  blades  of  grass, 
God's  mercies  would  them  all  surpass. 

In  number  these  would  but  convey 
A  faint  idea  to  what  they, 

Most  blessed  promises,  include 
Of  mercy's  glorious  multitude. 

"Eye  hath  not  seen  nor  ear  heard" 
What  God  hath  for  His  own  prepared. 

In  time  He  gives  what  He  sees  best 
To  fit  them  for  their  endless  rest. 

[297] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Eternity  shall  not  explore, 

Nor  yet  exhaust  their  Father's  store. 

Infinite  knowledge  can  but  know 
What  power  infinite  can  bestow; 

But  Jesus  the   Foundation  is, 

And  Top-stone  sure  of  all  our  bliss. 

He  is  the  Channel  through  which  runs 
Mercy  to  Adam's  fallen  sons; 

Nor  is  He  either  weak  or  slack 

To  bear  their  prayers  and  praises  back 

To  Him  Who  did  so  willing  send 
His  Son  for  such  a  gracious  end; 

Then  who  would  grumbling  dare  despise 
The  day  of  small  things,  but  would  rise 

And  in  faith's     energy  of  soul, 
Take  part  as  earnest  of  the  whole. 

Though  grace  and  strength  and  means  be 

small, 
A  faithful  God  supplies  them  all; 

And  they  have  little  faith  indeed 
Who  can't  for  these  a  promise  plead. 

Where  God  is  pleased  grace  to  impart, 
It  still  increases  in  that  heart, 

And  doth  unto  perfection  tend, 
And  shall  make  perfect  in  the  end. 

This  sanctifying  work  is  known 

To  those  whom  grace  hath  chose  alone. 

Disease  and  weakness  oft  doth  bring 
Us  courage  almost  down  to  fling, 

As  if  He  that  hath  made  the  wound, 
Could  not  again  make  whole  and  sound; 

Or,  better  make  it  serve  as  oar 
To  row  us  soon  to  Canaan's  shore. 

[298] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


And  as  to  outward  means  being  small, 
God  oft  His  saints  to  this  doth  call. 

No  doubt  He  hath  their  good  in  view, 
By  it  some  passion  to  subdue; 

To  try  their  faith,  or  show  His  power, 
Unequaled  in   the   trying  hour; 

But  still  their  raiment  and  their  food 
Is  in  the  covenant  made  good. 

The  ravens  carried  flesh  and  bread 
That  good  Elijah  should  be  fed; 

And  while  God's  providence  doth  carve, 
His  dear  children  shall  not  starve; 

With  common  mercies  they're  so  used, 
They're  undervalued  or  abused, 

As  if  the  more  we  do  possess, 

We  would  acknowledge  God  the  less. 

O  that  I  could  more  grateful  be 
For  mercies  God  bestows  on  me! 

And  less  disposed  to  fret  and  grieve 
When  I  chastisement  do  receive, 

Which  at  the  long  run  well  mav  prove 
That  God's  design  therein  was  love. 

A  little  while  and  death  shall  me 
Remove  into  eternity, 

And  that  should  make  me  speak  and  think 
Like  one  on  such  an  awful  brink; 

And  with  eternity  in  view, 

Set  to  my  seal  that  God  is  true. 

To  Father,  Son  and  Spirit  be 

All  praise  for  grace  and  mercy  free; 

For  justice  doth  no  longer  bar 
The  way  against  salvation's  car, 

[299] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


But  in  Christ  shows  a  smiling  face 
And  doth  go  hand  in  hand  with  grace. 

Yet  none  for  this  should  dare  presume, 
For  Christless  ones  it  shall  consume. 

May  I  be  privileged  with  each  saint 
To  sing  God's  praise  without  restraint, 

Where  sin  shall  never,  never  sting, 
But  all  be  holy  as  their  King. 


A  Joyful  Meeting 


And  have  I  lived  to  see  his  face 
Whom  I  so  long  had  wished  to  see? 

God's  mercy  even  in  this  place 
Is  not  unseen,  unfelt  by  me. 

On  this  occasion  what  I  feel 

I  am  unable  to  express; 
Affection  was  not  cast  in  steel  — 

We  love  our  friends,  nor  can  do  less. 

But  friends  who  are  away  awhile 
One's  heart  is  overjoyed  to  see; 

We  greet  the  welcome  voice  and  smile 
As  being  what  they  used  to  be. 

But  now  that  brother's  come  again, 
What  of  his  coming  can  I  say? 

I  prayed,  nor  have  I  prayed  in  vain, 
That  God  would  keep  him  while  away. 

In  going  to  a  foreign  land, 

Though  doubtless  he  hath  perils  seen, 
Safe  in  the  hollow  of  God's  Hand 

He  evidently  kept  hath  been. 

My  brother  was  a  welcome  sight, 
For  otherwise  how  could  it  be? 

And  I  was  talkative  in  spite 

Of  that  reserve  which  clings  to  me. 

The  days  he  spent  with  us  were  few, 
But  very  happy  days  they  were; 

[300] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


It's  long  since  I  such  pleasure  knew, 
For  little  else  I  seemed  to  care. 

'Twas  for  himself  and  not  his  purse 
That  brother  I  was  glad  to  see; 

The  love  of  money  is  a  curse 
I  hope  will  never  cling  to  me. 

Still  money  answers  all  things  here, 
And,  God  be  thanked,  I  never  want 

Enough  all  my  expense  to  bear; 

God  bless  those  whom  reward  I  can't, 

May  they  receive  an  hundredfold 
For  all  that  they  have  done  for  me, 

Something  more  durable  than  gold 
My  God  on  them  bestowing  be. 

A  mystery  it  seemeth  still 

To  me  that  I  should  be  so  long 

A  good-for-nothing,  but  God's  Will 
I  may  be  sure  can  not  be  wrong. 

And  mysteries  are  not  for  me, 

To  solve  there  is  an  end  no  doubt; 

My  part  is  patient  just  to  be, 

And  God  Himself  will  bring  it  out. 

I  do  not  say  my  lot  is  hard, 
But  feel  for  sympathizer  must; 

I  know  God's  able  to  reward, 
And  will  reward  them  all  I  trust. 

His  blessing  now  and  evermore 
Be  theirs  who  are  so  kind  to  me; 

I  want  to  meet  them  on  that  shore 
Where  they  and  I  shall  both  be  free. 


I  Cried  to  God  From  the  Low 
Dungeon 

My  God,  these  gloomy  clouds  for  me  disperse; 

Thine  arm's  not  shortened  that  it  cannot  save; 
O  save  me  from  the  hand  of  the  perverse! 

Thou   Who   oppression  hast   permission   gave. 

[301] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

Lord,  hear  and  remember  me  for  good, 
Remember  me  and  all  my  foes  restrain, 

Who  are,  as  I  perceive,  an  active  brood; 

And  yet  before  their  face  show  Thou  dost  reign. 

Show  them  that  Thou  art  God,  the  God  of  those 
Who  trust  in  Thee  and  have  no  other  aid; 

That  Thou  wilt  not  forsake  them  Thou  hast  shown; 
Of  whom  or  what  then  should  I  be  afraid? 

For  Thou  hast  chosen  me  in  very  deed, 

And  with  a  strong  hand  brought  me  hitherto; 

And  still  Thou  knowest  how  and  where  to  lead, 
In  every  case  Thou  knowest  what  to  do. 

All  wise  Almighty  is  my  God,  and  hath 
Whatever  means  He  likes  to  use  at  hand; 

Nor  does  He  send  affliction  still  in  wrath, 

This  with  His  loving  kindness  would  not  stand; 

Else  we  could  never,  never  reconcile 

God's  dealings  with  His  people  and  His  foes; 

The  one  He  chastens,  loving  all  the  while, 
The  other  hating,  leaves  them  to  repose 

In  blind  security,  a  fatal  sleep, 
Better  to  have  a  painful  wakening  here, 

Than  have  through  all  eternity  a  heap 

Of  hell-fraught  curses  thundering  in  our  ear. 

Affliction  helps  to  keep  the  soul  awake, 
God  therefore  puts  a  thorn  in  our  nest; 

Yea,  thorn  after  thorn  our  rest  to  break 
In  time  that  we  may  have  eternal  rest. 

My  God,  these  gloomy  clouds  for  me  disperse; 
Thine  arm's  not  shortened  that  it  cannot  save; 

0  save  me  from  the  hand  of  the  perverse! 
Thou  Who  oppression  hast  permission  gave. 

And,  Lord,  if  Thou  wilt  hear  this  my  prayer, 
And  take  away  those  gloomy  clouds  from  me, 

1  promise  if  Thou  wilt  give  grace  and  spare 
My  life,  I'll  sing  a  song  of  praise  to  Thee. 


[302  ] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Acrostic 

Samuel,  when  on  your  likeness  I  do  look, 
Art  h^s,  I  think,  with  great  exactness  took 
My  brother's  features  and  expression,  too; 
Unlike,  alone,  the  color  is  of  you. 
Errors,  however,  such  I  can  remove; 
Love  colors  well,  and  memory  helpeth  love. 
So  fond  for  painting  is  the  human  mind, 
More  fond  than  fit,  for  oft  it  painteth  blind; 
Yes,  so  it  is,  and  oft  I've  found  it  so, 
Truth  can  alone  a  real  likeness  show; 
Here  dust  we  are  and  unto  dust  must  go. 


Welcome  Death 

Welcome  death,  if  Christ  be  mine, 

Welcome  death  I  say; 
Welcome  if  my  spirit  shine 

Shall  in   endless   day. 

Welcome  of  my  life  the  close, 

Welcome  bed  of  death; 
If  in  Christ  I  shall  repose, 

When  is  gone  this  breath. 

Welcome,  coffin,  shroud  and  tomb, 

Welcome  valley  clod; 
Welcome   death's   apparent   gloom, 

If  God  is  my  God. 

Welcome  silence  of  the  grave, 

Welcome  rest  from  toil; 
Welcome  home  of  Christian's  brave, 

Far  from  sin's  turmoil. 

Welcome  death,  disguised  friend, 
Welcome   joy  and  peace; 

Welcome  of  my  griefs  the  end, 
Welcome  sin's  decease. 

Flesh,  be  silent;  what  wouldst  thou? 

Why  of  lots  make  choice? 
God  to  dictate  won't  allow 

Thee,  then  lift  up  no  voice. 

[303] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

Welcome  saints'  eternal  rest, 

Welcome  company 
Of  the  angels  pure  and  blest, 

Soon  with  you  I'll  be. 

Welcome    Father,   Spirit,    Son; 

Welcome   God  of  Love! 
Come  Thou  Holy  Three  in  One, 

Take  me  safe  above! 


A  Freak  of  Fancy 

Spirits,  if  allowed  to  wander 
Back  again  earth's  scenes  to  view, 

Though  than  this  I  hope  have  fonder, 
E'en  admitting't  to  be  true; 

If  they  are  allowed  this  planet 

To  revisit,  as  I  say, 
Though  my  hope  dwells  little  on  it, 

Whither  would  my  spirit  stray? 

Yes,  my  disembodied  spirit, 

Wither  wouldst  thou  love  to  go? 

Just  where  now  I  would  inherit, 
If  indeed  it  might  be  so. 

Home's  a  word  of  great  attraction, 
Cold's  the  heart  that  loves  it  not; 

It  me  yields  much  satisfaction 
E'en  to  think  upon  that  spot. 

Whether  birds,  trees,  flowers,  water, 
Or  a  landscape  I  admire, 

Where  I  turn  me  'tis  no  matter, 
Nature's  all  I  can  desire. 

O  ye  fields,  where  oft  repairing 
I  have  been  to  meditate, 

Still  God's  bounty  be  declaring 
To  those  who  you  cultivate. 

Unto  those  that's  you  possessing 

Never  be  a  barren  soil, 
But  be  fruitful  and  a  blessing 

Unto  those  who  in  you  toil. 

[304] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Many  a  breeze  was  cross  you  borne, 
Many  a  snowflake  on  you  fell, 

Many  a  dew-besprinkled  morn 

Dawned  since  I  bade  you  farewell. 

Breezes,  dews,  dawn  and  night  falling 
Through  my  mind  alternate  go, 

While  the  past  it  is  recalling, 
Recollections  sweetly  flow. 

Round  old  home,  ye  gentle  breezes, 
Blow  as  ye  were  won't  to  do; 

Nor  let  strangers'  breath,  which  freezes, 
Ever  there  congeal  the  dew. 

There  how  beautiful  the  seasons 
Their  respective   places   kept, 

To  that  place  for  many  reasons 
Love  around  my  soul  hath  crept. 

I  could  gaze  for  hours  together 

On  a  scenery  so  fair; 
It  is  lovely,  lovely,  whether 

Or  not  I  can  it  declare. 

Not  in  person  but  in  fancy 
I  at  dawn  and  evening  steal 

Often  there,  I'm  sure  I  can  say, 
And  refreshed  my  spirits  feel. 

There  the  sun  rose  sweet  at  morn, 

There  it  set  as  sweet  at  eve; 
Thither  would  my  soul  return 

If  God's  presence  it  might  leave. 

And  what  if  by  transmigration 

I  old  home  revisit  would, 
'Tis  but  in  imagination, 

And  for  this  who  blame  me  could? 

Home,  sweet  home,  to  thee  wtih  pleasure 
Would  my  spirit  now  return, 

Past  enjoyment  to   remeasure, 

Where  hope's  candle  erst  did  burn. 

Not  forever  there  to  wander, 
As  if  I  on  earth  would  stay, 

[305] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


While  the  saints  are  happy  yonder, 
Glad  from  earth  to  be  away, 

But  I'd  like,  as  might  another, 

To  revisit  where  I  dwelt; 
Homesick  feelings,  who  can  smother 

When  they  are  so  keenly  felt? 

It  may  be  that  more  sensitive 
I  am  on  this  point  than  some; 

'Tis  no  foreign,  but  a  native 

Thought  with  me  to  think  of  home. 

Thither  by  the  muse  invited 

Going  I  could  not  refuse, 
Now  I  will  and  much  delighted 

There  accompany  the  muse; 

There  I'd  see  so  much  endearing 
To  my  memory  everywhere; 

Old  things  would  be  new  appearing 
To  my  spirit  fresh  and  fair. 

There  I'd  see  the  humble  dwelling 
Where  our  family  did  reside, 

When  each  bosom  joy  was  swelling, 
Rarely  known  in  homes  of  pride. 

Round  a  pleasant  fire  burning, 
From  the  labors  of  the  day. 

Family  members  when  returning, 
Still  were  cheerful  if  not  gay; 

There  I'd  see  the  hearth  surrounding 
Happy  sisters  three  or  four, 

While  a  brother  was  propounding 
Questions  as  in  days  of  yore. 
*  *  *  * 

But  on  scenes  like  these  to  linger 
Would  at  present  be  too  much 

For  my  time,  and  so  God's  finger 
I'd  trace  to  another  touch. 

Fairest  pictures  have  their  shading, 
Nor  would  wanting't  be  complete; 

Fairest  flowers  will  be  fading, 
So  will  bitter  mix  with  sweet. 

[306] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Happiness  is  not  a  flower 
Native  to  this  sin-curst  soil; 

To  retain't,  though   we  had  power, 
It  would  in  the  using  spoil. 

Surfeited  lest  we   despise  it, 
Wisely  God  doth  change  our  food; 

Higher  we  are  brought  to  prize  it 
When  we  taste  the  wormwood. 

God's  hand  is  to  be  respected, 
Come  to  us  what  way  it  will; 

Sweet  and  bitter's  both  directed 
By   unquestionable    skill. 

If  in  Him  we  are  believers, 
Faith  will  murmuring  prevent; 

We  should  ever  be  receivers, 
Humble,  thankful  and  content. 

His  if  we  are  ever  dealing  — 
Though  it  may  not  so  appear  — 

Of  His  love  is  a  revealing, 

Happy  they  His  cross  who  bear. 

And  what  if  they  are  His  hidden 
Ones,  affliction's  rod  who  see, 

If  to  God's  House  they'll  be  bidden, 
With  Christ  glorified  to  be? 

For  the  saints  a  rest  remaineth, 
When  their  utmost  do  their  foes; 

And  the  moment  saints  that  gaineth, 
Brings  all  sorrow  to  a  close. 

None  through  sorrow  there  are  wading, 
All  is  love  and  life  and  joy; 

There  their  pleasures  are  unfading, 
Sin  being  ceased,  what  can  annoy? 

Here  our  portion's  often  sorrow, 

Children  of  affliction  we 
Are  today,  yet  hope  tomorrow 

That  we  shall  more  joyful  be. 

Our  designs  God  often  crosses, 
When  we  ready  are  to  say: 

[307] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


'Tis  good  to  be  here;  losses 
Suddenly  may  come  our  way. 

Death  will  all,  without  exception, 
Visit  family,  breaches  make; 

Strongest  ties   will   of  affection 
Without  hesitation  break. 

That  death  came  he  left  a  token, 
Something  like  a  long  farewell, 

For  the  family  circle's  broken; 
Still  it  is,  it  must  be,  well. 

Surely  it  is  well  in  glory 
If  they  are,  that  they  may  sing 

Ever  of  redemption's  story, 
To  the  honor  of  their  King. 

Would  I  wish  them  back  from  Heaven, 
Once  more  on  life's  stormy  sea, 

To  and  fro  to  be  driven, 
Overwhelmed  like  to  be? 

No,  I'd  rather  be  preparing 
Them  to  follow  up  to  bliss, 

Than  have  them  my  sorrows  sharing 
In  a  world  such  as  this. 

And  if  in  His  matchless  beauty 
They  the  King  Immortal  see, 

Them  to  follow  is  a  duty, 

And  with  them  I'd  like  to  be. 

God  hath  given,  and  hath  taken 
Our  relations,  when  and  where 

It  hath  pleased  Him;  still  unshaken 
Is  to  us  His  love  and  care. 

Longer  than  I  first  intended 
I  have  of  our  family  spoke, 

Where  with  joy  and  grief  is  blended; 
Now  the  reverie  is  broke. 

Now  I'll  through  the  fields  be  walking, 
Old  acquaintance  for  to  see; 

Where  of  God  all  things  are  talking 
In  a  language  known  to  me. 


•  [308] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

There  I've  listened  with  attention 

Oft   to   conversations   sweet, 
Yet  not  one  word  of  dissention 

Ever  did  my  ear  greet. 

But  all  things  God's  praise  forthshowing, 

In  their  own  peculiar  way; 
Grass  and  herbs  and  trees  are  growing, 

Birds  are  singing  on  the  spray. 

All  God's  works  to  praise  have  power 

Him  Who  them  created  hast; 
Hence  it  is  each  little  flower 

Praise  Him  now  as  in  the  past. 

Here's  my  favorite  primrose  growing, 

Growing  where  it  used  to  do; 
But  the  scent  around  'tis  throwing 

Seems  to  me  to  be  quite  new. 

Here  oft  I've  been  invited 

To  enjoy  a  pleasant  walk, 
And  as  oft  have  been  delighted 

Listening  to  God's  creatures  talk. 

God  I  in  His  works  am  seeking, 

Neither  have  I  sought  in  vain, 
For  where  He  used  to  be  speaking 

To  me,  He  now  speaks  again. 

E'en  the  river's  constant  motion 

Also  hath  a  voice  to  me, 
As  it  travels  to  the  ocean, 

Which  speaks  of  eternity. 

Entertained  well  I  could  listen, 
Stay  and  gaze  upon  earth's  face; 

But,  farewell!  fair  scenes,  I  hasten 
Now  must  to  a  fairer  place; 

'Tis  that  place  whereon  is  sited 
The  House  Beautiful,  and  where 

Oft  I've  bent  my  steps,  delighted, 
Yes,  sweet  House  of  God,  'tis  there. 

There  I'm  going,  and  I  wonder, 
As  I  hasten  it  to  see, 

[309] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Of  their  house  of  worship  fonder 
Could  there  any  be  than  me? 

Since  I  left  it,  oft  my  trouble 

Was  lest  I  again  should  not 
See  that  place  where  God  gives  double 

To  His  people,  blessed  spot. 

Now  upon  my  view  it's  rising*, 
Welcome,  welcome,  happy  sight! 

They  who  God's  house  are  despising, 
Never   knew  what  was  delight. 

Now  I'll  take  a  look  around  it, 
As  I've  done  in  bygone  years; 

Than  I  left  I  better  found  it, 
Evident   through   all   appears. 

Shut  doors  won't  keep  out  a  spirit, 

Thought  will  pierce  through  bolt  and  bar: 

Now  I'm  in  here,  sons  inherit 
From  their  father's  dead  who  are. 

O  how  lovely  is  Thy  dwelling 
Place,  O  Lord  of  Hosts,  to  me! 

It  in  beauty  is  excelling 

Every  place  which  I  can  see. 

Of  Thy  grace  with  pleasure  laden 

Is  Thy  tabernacles,  too; 
No  such  pleasure  since  from  Eden 

Man  was  driven  did  he  know. 

0  but  I  have  oft  been  praying 
That  this  house  again  I'd  see; 

Happy  they  who  here  are  staying, 
On  the  gospel  fed  they  be. 

But  do  they  of  God  their  Saviour 

The  pure  doctrine  still  adorn 
By  a  suitable  behavior? 

If  so,  blessed  day  they  were  born. 

1  am  far  too  soon  for  sermon, 
Still  I  think  I'll  for  it  stay; 

Here  good  news,  like  dew  from  Hermon, 
Christians  shall  refresh  today. 

[310] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 

Here  oft  I've  sat  with  pleasure 
Listening  to  the  gospel  sound, 

And   invaluable   treasure 
I  have  in  the  gospel  found. 

Here  I'll  stay,  as  I  was  saying, 
That  God's  people  I  may  meet; 

In  that  place  where  praise  and  praying 
Is  an  exercise  most  sweet. 

Of  my  being  seen  no  danger  — 

I  can  see  without  being  seen; 
Few  would  recognize  the  stranger, 

Though  I'd  in  the  body  been. 

Now  the  hand  upon  the  dial 

Sermon  time  doth  fully  show, 
Now  I'll  be  put  to  the  trial, 

If  the  people  I  will  know. 

Though  I  well  remember  faces 

Here  which  I  used  to  see, 
Empty  now  I  doubt  their  place  is, 

For  most  of  them  dead  must  be. 

But  the  children  are  possessing 

Where  the  fathers  did  possess; 
Bless  them,  Lord,  and  make  a  blessing, 

Those  whose  fathers  Thou  didst  bless. 

Now  I  hear  footsteps  and  voices 

Thronging  in  —  they're  young  and  old  — 

And  my  spirit  it  refreshes 
This  glad  sight  for  to  behold. 

Now  that  they  are  in  and  seated, 

Who  they  are  let  me  surmise; 
Death  acquaintance  hath  defeated  — 

Scarcely  one  I  recognize. 

E'en   the  pulpit   occupying 

Is  another  than  I've  seen; 
Minister  and  people  lying 

Open  both  to  change  hath  been. 

To  another  people  preaching 
Is  another  pastor  here 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Than  I've  seen,  a  lesson  teaching 
That  the  final  end  draws  near. 

But  the  word  that's  heard  and  spoken 

Is  in  ages  all  the  same; 
It  hath  stood  and  stands  unbroken; 

Glory  to  its  Author's  name! 

I  am  glad  in  such  good  order 

That  I've  found  the  house  of  prayer, 
Peace   of  its   defense  the  border 

Testifies  God's  special  care. 

Lord,  where's  told  redemption's  story 
Make  on  earth  to  be  a  praise, 

And  do  Thou  Thy  house  of  glory 
Glorify  now  and  always. 

Happy  Israel,  who  is  like  to 
Thee,  O  people  saved  by  God? 

He  thine  enemies  shall  strike  through, 
Of  His  vengeance  with  the  rod. 

Long  I've  stayed,  and  longer  staying 
I  could  be  on  this  sweet  spot; 

But,  farewell!  I  must  obeying 
Be  the  Carver  of  my  lot. 

I  must  follow  where  He  leadeth, 
Go  and  come  at  His  command; 

This  excursion  far  exceedeth 
Any  I  have  took  in  hand. 

Hitherto  with  spirit- walking 

I  have  unacquainted  been, 
But  I've  long  enough  been  talking 

Of  the  good  things  I  have  seen. 

Thanks  to  Him  Who  me  hath  given 
This  sweet  sight  of  by-past  things; 

Now  my  vacant  place  in  Heaven 
Thitherward  my  spirit  brings. 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Praise  for  a  Friend's  Recovery 

0  Lord,  I  come  before  Thee  now 
Because  a  faithful  God  art  Thou, 

And  answered  hast  my  prayer; 

1  said  that  I  would  give  Thee  praise 

If  that  my  sick  friend  Thou  wouldst  raise, 
And  Thou  his  life  didst  spare. 

So  now  I  come,  a  feeble  worm, 
What  I  have  promised  to  perform, 

Depending  upon  Thee; 
That  Thou'rt  a  God  that  heareth  prayer 
I  feel  myself  bound  to  declare, 

For  Thou  hast  answered  me. 

And  now  that  I  a  song  may  bring 
To  Thee,  give  grace  that  I  may  sing, 

Else  it  shall  be  a  blank. 
Life  for  my  friend  I  have  besought, 
And   Thou   from   death's   gates   hast   him 
brought, 

For  which  I  Thee  would  thank. 

I  cannot  sing  a  learned  song, 
My  gratitude  however  strong, 

Or  well  I  am  inclined; 
But  as  I  can  I  would  Thee  praise, 
Who  to  my  friend  hast  given  days, 

To  Thee  Whom  I  resigned. 

To  him  a  Father  Thou  hast  been, 
Thy  power  he  hath  surely  seen, 

And  I  have  seen  it,  too, 
And  now  acknowledge  would  the  same; 
All  glory  to  Thy  Holy  Name, 

Who  wonders  great  can  do! 

And,  Lord,  my  friend's  life  Who  did  spare, 
Thy  service  may  he  make  his  care, 

While  Thou  dost  life  prolong; 
And  so  prepare  him  by  Thy  grace 
To  be  a  dweller  in  that  place 

Where  sung  is  Moses'  song. 


[313] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


A  Sweeter  Song 

I   who  have   lately   sung,  "remember  me," 
Am  now  constrained  a  sweeter  song  to  sing; 

For  my  God  hath  remembered  me  I  see, 

And  therefore  songs  to  Him  I  now  would  sing. 

To  praise  the  Mighty  God  shall  I  aspire, 
Who  am  but  dust  and  ashes  at  the  best? 

Yes,  I  must  praise,  for  praise  God  doth  require; 
A  mute  He  won't  receive  into  His  rest. 

Not  that  our  praising  wins  admittance  there, 
Christ  wrought  for  us  what  we  could  never  do; 

And  that  we  are  not  given  to  despair, 

All  praise  to  Him  to  Whom  all  praise  is  due. 

And  even  in  His  ways  of  providence 

His  tender  care  of  us  He  oft  doth  show; 

If  on  our  side  we  have  omnipotence, 

Unhurt  through  every  danger  we  can  go. 

Thanks,  thanks  to  Him  Who  hath  removed  my 
grief, 

And  left  me  joy  instead  as  now  appears; 
Surely  among  ten  thousand  He  is  chief, 

Who  still  the  prayer  of  His  afflicted  hears. 

And  see,  my  soul,  that  thou  wilt  not  forget 
What  thy  experience  of  thy  Lord  hath  been, 

But   thy   Deliverer    still   before   thee   set; 
Alas!  I  dread  what  I,  too,  oft  have  seen. 

Too  oft  hast  thou  forgot  what  God  hath  wrought 

Both  for  and  in  thee,  O  ungrateful  soul! 
And  so  when  thou  with  thanks  shouldst  have  been 

fraught, 

Then  blanks  or  worse  made  up   the  worthless 
whole. 

And,  O  my  soul,  is  this  the  poor  return 

Which  thou  to  God  thy  Maker  hast  to  make, 

Whose  love  from  all  eternity  did  burn 

That  He  might  save  thee  for  His  mercy's  sake? 

Wanting  in  love  to  God  is  what  makes  all 
The  duties  we  perform  coldly  done; 

[314] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


So  when  to  duty  God  our  heart  doth  call, 

It  scarcely  moves  when  it  with  speed  should  run. 

And  then  it's  so  forgetful  of  the  good 

Which  God  so  bounteous  doth  on  me  bestow, 

I'm  sometimes  almost  ready  to  conclude 
If  I  were  Christ's  it  never  would  be  so. 

But,  Lord,  give  grace  and  then  Thy  Name  I'll  praise, 
And  not  forget  the  wonders  Thou  hast  done; 

O  Thou,  Who  art  acquaint  with  all  my  ways, 
Draw  me,  and  after  Thee  I'll  surely  run. 

And,  Lord,  forbid  that  I  should  run  in  vain, 
But  if  Christ's  mine  I  cannot  lose  my  way 

To  where  my  Christ  is,  is  every  saint's  refrain, 
And  shall  be  mine  throughout  unending  day. 


My  Heart's  Desire 

I  am  oft  in  trouble,  Lord, 

Such  has  been  Thy  pleasure; 

But  Thy  Name  be  still  adored, 
With  Thee  is  the  measure. 

And  that  this  remains  with  Thee 

Is  indeed  a  blessing, 
Otherwise  my  life  would  be 

To  me  most  distressing. 


To  the  living  and  the  dead, 

Equally  related, 
Where  life  her  weary  pinions  spread, 

Meanwhile   I   am  located. 

The  dead  are  now  beyond  my  care, 

The   living,   O   the  living! 
To  them,  to  them,  my  God  declare 

Thyself  a  God  forgiving. 

Sure  myself  and  friends  I  may, 

Without  reservation, 
Give  to  God  this  very  day 

A  life-long  consecration. 

[315] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Nothing  better  I  can  do 

Than  make  full  surrender 
Of  myself  and  friends  unto 

Him  Whose  love's  most  tender. 

God  was  Love  before  I  was 

Capable  of  loving, 
Pledged  forever  in  its  cause, 

To  His  own  approving. 

And  if  God  is  Love,  why  not 

Give  up   each  loved  relation 
To  Him,  Who,  ordering  the  lot, 

Fits  each  for  their  vocation. 

O  my  God,  Thou  well  dost  know 

What  is  my  heart's  desire 
For  those,  but  Thou  alone  canst  show 

To  each  what  they  require. 

Bring  them  all  into  Thy  fold, 

There  to  stay  constrain  them; 
With  a  gracious  Hand  them  hold, 

With  Thy  Love  sustain  them. 

Much  my  friends  for  me  have  done, 

Much  to  them  I'm  owing; 
Lord,   reward  them,   every  one, 

With  what's  best  worth  bestowing. 

Thus  provided  for  they'll  be 

Blest  and  made  a  blessing; 
O  my  God,  my  friends  to  see, 

What's  best  worth  possessing. 

Grace,  grace  unto  it  can  make 

All  that  the  law  requires; 
Grace  to  my  friends  for  Jesus'  sake 

Is  all  my  heart  desires. 

And,  Lord,  if  Thou'lt  vouchsafe  Thy  grace 

To  me  in  my  relations, 
We'll  all  together  sing  Thy  praise, 

Where  death  makes  no  invasions. 


[316] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Less  Than  the  Least 

Less  than  the  least  of  all  Thy  mercies,  Lord, 

Am  I  unworthy  of  Thy  notice  sure; 
For  mercies  many  more  I  could  record 

Than  all  the  trials  which  I  can  endure. 

And  these  of  late  so  very  sharp  hath  been, 
I  thought  the  time  was  coming  very  near 

That  I  should  taken  be  behind  the  screen 

Which  separates  the  land  of  souls  from  here. 

I  scarce  could  move  without  being  made  to  cry, 
So  sharp  and  sudden  came  the  darting  pain; 

But,  lo!  the  good  Samaritan  was  nigh 

And  helped  me  with  a  little  strength  again. 

He  healed  my  wounds,  or  what  was  much  the  same, 
Did  bless  the  means  I  used  some  ease  to  get; 

And  be  the  glory  ever  to  His  Name 

Whose  eyes  upon  me  was  in  mercy  set. 

And  now  I  hope  I  shall  while  life  remains 
My  life  still  more  and  more  to  Him  devote, 

Who  did  remove  from  me  those  dreadful  pains, 
And  cheered  my  spirits  with  His  "brooding  note," 

Which  is  the  consolation  of  His  grace, 
The  only  consolation  which  can  give 

Substantial  satisfaction,  or  can  chase 

Sad  thoughts  and  make  us  happy  while  we  live. 

Happy  in  life  with  all  its  trials  sad, 

Happy  in  death  with  all  its  gloom  and  fears, 

The  Christian's  case  can  never  be  so  bad 
But  he  may  have  some  joy  amidst  his  tears. 

If  by  God's  Hand  affliction  I  have  seen, 
I've  also  seen  His  mercies  to  be  great; 

With  me  in  all  my  trouble  He  hath  been 

That  I  might  not  be  crushed  beneath  its  weight. 

Our  thankfulness  betokens  gratitude 

When  nothing  else  to  God  we  render  can, 

And  with  so  many  proofs  that  God  is  good 
I  now  may  finish  just  where   I  began: 

[317] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Less  than  the  least  of  all  Thy  mercies,  Lord, 
Am  I  unworthy  of  Thy  notice  sure; 

For  mercies  many  more  I  could  record 
Than  all  the  trials  which  I  can  endure. 


A  Farewell  to  the  Muse 

Dear  brother  the  muse,  discontent 

At  being  so  ill  entertained, 
Has  threatened  herself  to  absent 

From  a  mind  where  she  can't  be  sustained. 

I'm  exceedingly  sorry  to  say 

Better  lodging  I  can't  her  afford; 

I  fain  would  induce  her  to  stay, 

But  thereto  she  won't  be  implored. 

But  if  she  hath  made  up  her  mind 
In  this  quarter  no  more  to  appear, 

I  hope  better  lodging  she'll  find 
Than  ever  she  occupied  here. 

For  years  a  companion  most  sweet 
I'm  certain  to  me  she  hath  been, 

But  recently  little  to   eat 

Hath  made  her  both  peevish  and  lean. 

Nor  can  she  be  ill  to  sustain, 

Else  she  would  not  stopped  have  with  me; 
Of  trifles  though  she'll  not  complain, 

On  nothing  she  can't  living  be. 

To  keep  her  from  pining  to  death 
Every  means  in  my  power  I  try, 

Yet  scarce  can  keep  in  her  a  breath; 
O  that  I  her  wants  could  supply! 

O  how  to  divert  her  I  wish! 

But  hunger  diverted  won't  be; 
She  asks  for  her  favorite  dish, 

And  wistfully  looketh  at  me. 

Starvation  her  stares  in  the  face  — 
No  wonder  she  threatens  to  leave; 

But  whether  away  or  in  place, 
For  her  I  can  only  but  grieve. 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


I'm  sorry  to  part  such  a  friend, 
But  parted  with  soon  she  must  be; 

To  starve  her  I  did  not  intend, 
But  for  her  I've  nothing  I  see. 

I  fondly  had  hoped  to  be  blest 
With  her  to  the  close  of  my  days; 

0  what  shall  I  do  for  my  guest, 

Who  but  where  she's  exercised  stays! 

Her  work  was  her  rest  and  her  food, 
While  she  was  pleased  I  was  content; 

Her  presence  I'm  sure  did  me  good, 
And  her  absence  I  still  must  lament. 

1  thank  her  for  all  she  hath  done, 
My  heart  oft  nigh  broken  to  soothe; 

With  me  hand  in  hand  she  hath  run, 
Life's  rugged  path  trying  to  smoothe. 

Dear  Muse,  a  hard  task  oft  was  thine, 
But  well  thou  hast  borne  the  strife; 

It  seems  that  God  did  thee  design 
To  sweeten  the  bitter  of  life. 

My  joys  and  my  sorrows  you  shared, 
Your  sympathy  always  was  sure; 

Still  ready  yourself  you  declared 
Tribulation  with  me  to  endure. 

And  thanks  to  my  God  Who  hath  sent 

To  me  a  companion  so  true, 
Much  anguish  you  did  me  prevent  — 

I'm  sure  I'm  the  better  for  you. 

Elsewhere  you  might  have  been  caressed, 
As  oft  you  have  been  I  believe, 

But  maybe  you  judged  it  more  blessed 
To  give  here  than  elsewhere  receive. 

Unwearied  your  services  were, 

You  cheerfulness  most  did  approve, 

And  hence  in  dejection  your  care 
Was  to  lift  me  my  troubles  above. 

In  bringing  my  soul  nearer  bliss, 
A  blessing  to  me  you  have  been$ 

[319] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


But  O  what  a  parting  is  this, 

And  are  you  for  leaving  me  clean? 

You  much  for  your  service  I  owe 
Which  I  am  to  pay  you  unfit; 

For  you  there  is  nothing  but  go, 
And  nothing  for  me  but  submit. 

And  go  where  you  strength  may  regain, 
And  take  my  best  wishes  with  you; 

I'm  making,  though  not  without  pain, 
An  effort  to  bid  you  adieu. 

Around  my  heart  bound  like  a  spell, 
I  knew  not  I  loved  you  so  dear; 

But,  Muse,  I  must  bid  you  farewell, 
As  soon  I  must  everything  here. 

Now  brother,  you  see  how  I'm  fixed  — 
In  the  muse  I  have  lost  a  good  friend; 

Thus  pleasure  with  pain  we  have  mixed, 
But  Christ  is  my  hope  to  the  end. 

My  weakness  is  on  the  increase, 
Verse  making  I  have  to  resign; 

But  while  God  supports  me  with  grace, 
I  trust  I  shall  never  repine. 

My  thoughts  may  be  occupied  still 
While  judgment  is  given  to  me, 

God's  providence,  purpose  and  will 
Are  never  lost  sight  of  to  be. 

The  past  and  the  present  supplies 
With  matter  abundant  for  praise, 

And  hope  in  the  future  good  spies  — 
God's  faithfulness  never  decays. 

It  is  not  because  I  have  grief 

That  I  should  despond  or  despair; 

Not  of  sufferers  but  sinners  the  chief 
Each  Christian  himself  will  declare. 

God's  favor  to  have  realized 
Is  better  than  life  to  the  saint, 

And  if  we  are  saints  exercised, 

We'll  find  little  cause  for  complaint. 

[320] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Still,  if  we  our  work  could  but  choose, 
Few  choice  of  affliction  would  make; 

But  when  faith  God's  Hand  in  it  views, 
We  welcome  it  can  for  His  sake. 


And  yet  I  am  puzzled  to  know 

What  good  I  on  earth  can  achieve; 

Their  faith  by  their  works  some  can  show, 
But  where  is  the  proof  I  believe? 

My  work  is  to  wait  it  appears, 

For  nothing  but  wait  I  can  do; 
That  soul  it  to  God  much  endears 

Whose  piety  patience  shines  through. 

Wherever  God  pleases  I'll  live, 

Whatever  God  pleases  I'll  be, 
Whenever  God  pleases  He'll  give, 

If  ever  the  strength  I'd  fain  see. 

And  what  though  strength  comes  not  again, 
With  weakness  I  must  be  content; 

But  useless  through  life  to  remain 

Much  that's  sad  to  my  mind  doth  present. 

Activity  runs  for  the  prize, 

Faith  aided  by  physical  force 
Like  an  eagle  mounts  up  to  the  skies, 

Outflying  the  feeble,  of  course. 

Their  position  I  envy  them  not, 
But  heartily  wish  them  God  speed, 

Though  for  me  a  far  different  lot 
Hath  Infinite  Wisdom  decreed. 

But  if  in  God's  service  employed 
While  I  have  a  cross  to  take  up, 

In  my  heart  there  cannot  be  a  void 

But  His  presence  will  more  than  make  up. 

I  cannot  be  straightened  in  Him, 
Provision  enough  hath  been  made 

To  keep  faith  and  patience  in  trim, 

Through  oceans  of  grief  though  I  wade. 

Life's  path  He  could  well  have  made  smooth, 
If  that  for  my  good  He  had  seen; 

[321] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


As  it  is,  His  love,  wisdom  and  truth 
To  me  hath  in  exercise  been. 

To  question  His  love  I've  no  ground, 
In  the  invalids'  list  though  enrolled, 

If  worthy  at  last  I'll  be  found 

His  glory  through  grace  to  behold. 

Dear  brother  the  time  may  be  short 
Which  we  are  on  earth  to  be  spared, 

Then  let  us  each  other  exhort 

For  death  to  be  getting  prepared. 

This  mortal  immortal  one  day, 

If  we  are  believers  we'll  see, 
And  then  these  poor  bodies  of  clay 

Shall  be  all  we  could  wish  them  to  be. 

This  in  prospect  our  hearts'  comfort  should, 
Hope  smells  like  the  dew-sprinkled  rose; 

But  why  on  your  patience  intrude? 
My  song  and  my  singing  I'll  close. 

These  verses  are  more  by  a  third 

Than  first  I  had  thought  they  would  be; 

I  may  say  just  whatever  occurred 

Has  made  them  the  length  that  you  see. 

You  know  that  disease  of  the  spine 
Has  chargeable  made  me  long  since, 

And  gratitude  ought  to  be  mine 

For  care  which  my  friends  do  evince. 

So  now  with  a  wish  I'll  conclude, 

That  those  who  have  helped  me  in  time; 

E'en  indirect  doers  of  good 
I'll  meet  in  a  happier  clime. 

A  final  farewell  to  the  muse, 

Except  my  strength  God  should  renew; 
It  had  faults  but  you  will  them  excuse, 

Dear  brother,  God's  grace  be  with  you. 


[322  ] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Summer's  Approach 

I  see  the  green  leaves  on  the  bushes, 

A  token  that  summer  is  near, 
For  spring  winter's  harsh  voice  now  hushes 

What  new-born  beauties  appear! 

I  wish  I  could  walk  out  to  view  them, 

As  long  ago  oft  I  have  done; 
The  fields,  how  I  loved  to  go  through  them, 

When  spring's  pleasant  march  was  begun, 

To  gather  the  primrose  and  daisy, 
Or  see  the  green  leaves  on  the  trees; 

But  now  my  whole  frame's  got  so  crazy 
E'en  resting  scarce  keeps  it  at  ease, 

So  that  I  must  view  at  a  distance 
The  pleasures  I'd  fain  be  among; 

I  ought  to  rejoice  in  existence, 
But  sorrow  ran  off  with  my  song 

And  left  but  a  mournful  ditty 

Of  sighing  and  sobbing  to  me; 
Yet  grief  to  let  have  all's  a  pity, 

Its  victim  I  don't  like  to  be. 

In  spite  of  my  grief  I  rejoice  will, 
For  sorrow  must  not  have  it  all; 

"Peace  be  unto  you"  is  Christ's  voice  still  — 
This  me  to  rejoicing  doth  call. 

How  well  worth  the  hearing  and  seeing 
Are  those  things  I  hear  and  see; 

From  God  everything  hath  its  being, 
And  God,  Who  made  all  things,  made  me. 

How  well  to  have  God  for  my  Father, 
His  poor  child  who  never  will  leave; 

The  flowers  no  more  I  can  gather, 
But  love  did  it  all  I  perceive. 

And  this  hath  been  my  consolation: 
Through  all  the  privation  I've  had, 

That  God  did  with  each  visitation, 
Still  give  me  wherewith  to  be  glad. 

[323] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


But  where  shall  the  buds  be  and  flowers, 
The  leaves  and  the  blossoms  soon,  where, 

That  now  deck  the  woods,  fields  and  bowers? 
A  short  time  and  none  will  be  there. 

A  few  days  or  weeks  and  they'll  vanish, 

And  be  as  they  never  had  been; 
They  come  as  it  were  just  to  banish 

Monotony   from   the    dull   scene. 

And  like  them  I  am  in  a  measure, 
A  springtime  I  have  had  like  those; 

But  now  I  have  days  without  pleasure, 
My  path  through  a  cloudy  land  goes. 

But  more  than  enough  has  now  said  been 
Upon  the  dark  side  of  the  case, 

What  matter  what  way  I  have  led  been 
If  I  be  a  trophy  of  grace? 

The  brightest  and  best  of  the  story 

The  last  is,  if  Jesus  be  mine; 
For  of  grace  the  fair  climax  is  glory, 

And  there  God's  redeemed  all  shall  shine. 

As  rivers  run  still  to  the  ocean, 

So  time  to  eternity  doth; 
And  we're   driven  on  with  its  motion, 

And  that  whether  willing  or  loath. 

I  feel  my  frame  gradually  sinking, 
Death's    rapids   I'm   almost   among, 

Through  which  how  I'll  get  I'm  oft  thinking. 
But  God  is  both  faithful  and  strong. 

My  soul  must  soon  leave  this  poor  prison, 

Which   indicates   speedy   decay; 
But  in   Christ  if   virtually   risen, 

On  earth  why  wish  longer  to  stay? 

Death,  source   of   much   gloomy  reflection, 
Its  ugly  face  one  day  must  hide; 

There  shall  be  a  sweet  resurrection, 
And  all  because  Jesus  hath  died. 

Death  still  keeps  a  dark  side  to  Nature, 
But  never  can  do   so  to  grace; 

[324] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Christ's  presence  is  all  the  bright  feature 
That  ever  can  light  up  death's  face. 

And  if  Christ's  fair  presence  can  brighten 

Or  beautify  death  as  it  were, 
What  can  there  be  in  death  to  frighten 

One   soul  Christ  hath  bought  while   He's 
there? 

Christ  never  redeemed  to  forsake  me, 
When  comes  the  last  struggle  I  know 

He'll  more  than  a  conqueror  make  me, 
And  with   Him  to   glory  I'll  go. 

For  as  sure  as  His  Blood  He  did  sprinkle, 

So    surely   to    glory   He'll   bring, 
To  present  us  without  spot  or  wrinkle 

Or  semblance  of  any  such  thing. 

At  home  then  with  His  and  our  Father, 
At  home  with  the  whole  ransomed  throng, 

Is  a  thought  from  which  hope  well  may  gather 
Some  honey  to  sweeten  my  song. 

And  this  thought  my  heart  oft  rejoices, 
That  I  will  be  soon  with  His  own, 

To  mingle  my  voice  with  their  voices 
Who  worship  around  the  white  throne, 

Where  I  shall  have  joy  for  this  sorrow, 
Which  plaintive  hath  made  me  so  long; 

Today  I  have  grief,  but  tomorrow 
I  may  have  an  unending  song; 

A  song  which  shall  still  be  unbroken 
When  numberless  ages  have  run, 

Whereof  Lord  now  give  me  a  token 
And  perfect  what  Thou  hast  begun; 

So  that  when  my  Father  it  pleases, 

I  may  with  a  willingness  go, 
Becoming  that  interest  in  Jesus 

I  have  been  professing  to  show. 

And  as  for  the  woods,  trees  and  flowers, 

That  often  delighted  while  here, 
And  helped  me  through  many  sad  hours, 

In  glory  they  shall  not  appear. 

[325] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


But  yet  there  are  flowers  in  glory 
Far  fairer  than  I  can  suppose, 

And  theirs  is  an  unending  story  — 

How  happy  their  sweetness  who  knows. 

For  there  they  have  unfading  flowers, 

All  lovely  and  lovely  to  be, 
And  a  place  in  those  beautiful  bowers 

My  Christ  is  preparing  for  me. 


The  Heap  of  Witness 

If  all  my  mercies  gathered  were 

Together  into  one, 
A  heap  of  mercies  would  be  there 

Would  reach  beyond  the  sun. 

And  I  do  think  that  such  an  heap 

Of  witness  to  erect, . 
Would  do  me  good  could  I  but  keep 

My  eye  on  it  direct. 

For  how  upon  that  witness  gaze 

And   not   reminded   be 
Of  mercies  which  in  former  days 

God   hath   bestowed   on   me? 

Here  temporal  mercies  mingle  would 

My  spiritual  among, 
Neither  of  which  forget  I  should 

For  both  around  me  throng; 

Each  eager  as  it  were  to  be 

Put  in  their  proper  place; 
The  least  of  them  I'm  glad  to  see, 

For  all  are  marked  with  grace. 

All  mercies  of  my  life  by  past 
Would  in   succession  come, 

Upon  the  heap  themselves  to  cast, 
'Till  an  amazing  sum 

Would  rise  before  my  wondering  eyes, 

Acknowledged  all  to  be, 
And  many  which  have  wore  disguise 

Among  them  I  would  see. 

[326] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


Nor  would  the  least  perhaps  be  those 

Which  wore  the  darkest  hue, 
Faith  in  the  shadow  stronger  grows 

Provided  it  be  true. 

God,  my  God,  oft  remembered  me 

And  my  deliverance  wrought, 
In  ways  I  own  I  could  not  see, 

By   means   I   never   thought. 

Then  how  is  it  that  I  can  so 

Forget  what  God  has  done? 
Though  mercies  streams  sometimes  seem  low, 

Quite  dry  they  never  run. 

I  say,  however  low  they  seem, 

Sufficient  still  remains 
To  make  for  gratitude  a  theme 

The  saints  can  sing  in  chains; 

Because  their  source  of  happiness 

Not  in  themselves  doth  lie; 
The  world  may  hate,  oppose,  oppress, 

But  can't  reach  their  supply; 

For  though  it  sometimes  much  can  do 

God's  people  to  annoy, 
Still  stopping  short  at  "hitherto," 

It   can't   their   peace    destroy. 

God's  mercy  is  and  is  alone 

The  hope  of  Christians  all; 
God  hath  my  soul  in  trouble  known, 

And  therefore  hope  I  shall. 

Yes,  I  will  hope  because  I  have 

By  sweet  experience  seen 
That  God  Who  mighty  is  to  save 

Hath  my  salvation  been. 

God's  mercies  are  like  brilliant  stars 
Which  shine  dark  clouds  among; 

God  sends  them  oft  like  golden  cars 
To  help  poor  souls  along. 

We  never  could  get  on  without 
The  mercies  God  bestows; 

[327] 


CLOUDS      AND       SUNSHINE 


However  we  are  tossed,  no  doubt, 
Our  ship  still  shoreward  goes. 

"My  soul  is  weary  of  my  life," 

If  Job  was  made  to  say; 
I  much  need  grace  to  end  the  strife 

In  a  becoming  way. 

With  patience  and  with  fortitude 

Life's  trials  I  should  bear, 
I  know  I  ought  and  gladly  would 

Christ  follow  everywhere. 

Yes,  everywhere,  wherever  He 
Is  pleased  to  lead  the  way; 

It  never  can  go  ill  with  me 
If  Christ  will  be  my  stay. 

And  He  is  mine  I'm  very  sure, 
For  He  hath  stood  by  me, 

And  helped  me  troubles  to  endure 
And  mercies  made  me  see. 

What  trials  God  hath  given  me, 
He  knoweth  and  doth  know 

How  very  near  death  may  be  — 
Still  mercy,  Lord,  me  show, 

That  on  the  very  brink  of  death 

A  heap  of  witness  I 
May  raise,  and  with  my  latest  breath 

God,  my  God,  glorify. 


[328] 


YB   I  1812 


255953 


